GRAFENWOEHR, Germany - Urbanization is encroaching on much of the woodlands globally, forcing animals into smaller areas of land and limiting opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
But in Bavaria, green lands are plentiful and the animal population is far from scarce, which provides an abundance of game for hunters in an ideal setting.
In Germany, however, hunting is more than just a sport; it is a conservational duty, according to Hunting and Fishing Program Manager Ulrich Sibbers, Outdoor Recreation Grafenwoehr.
The hunting system here is ruled by strict ethical codes and a demanding education system. Hunters are expected to learn a dizzying array of laws, identify various species of animals in the forest and participate in unique hunting traditions.
Additionally, precise shooting skills are a must.
To acclimate Soldiers and family members to the German traditions of hunting, a three-month course is offered through Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation and Outdoor Recreation.
The course equips newly minted and veteran hunters with information on wildlife identification and conservation, firearm safety, survival and first aid skills and game care.
"The course is a good mix of young and old with all ranks participating," said Sibbers, adding that there are many misconceptions about the hunting process in Germany because it differs greatly from hunting in the United States. "But this course opens up doors for a unique and cultural hunting experience right here."
"The training is a lot more thorough than what I was used to," said veteran hunter Joe Livingston, instructor at the Combined Arms Training Center on Rose Barracks. "You learn more about each animal - what they like to eat, how to spot diseases, when they mate. It's an in-depth look into the world of the animal. It's so much more than just shooting game."
After successful completion of the course, participants are eligible for the German Hunting License, administered by the person's local German city. This license enables eligibility to hunt in locations throughout Germany and other European countries with proper permits and permission.
Hunters may seek game including red deer, roe deer, wild boar, chamois, feathered game and a variety of others, depending on the season.
"The course gave me more respect for the animals I hunt," said Livingston. "Instead of just pulling the trigger, I take time to study the animal - to look at the horns, look at the differences of each species and shoot with care and caution."
In addition to the hunting course, a one-week fishing course is available for those seeking to obtain a German Fishing License, a necessity when fishing in Germany. The course is easier by comparison and, upon completion, allows capture of several different trout, catfish and pike along with many other fish in the waters of Europe.
Although the main emphasis of both the hunting and fishing courses is to learn German laws and traditions that differ from the ways of hunting and fishing in the states, the training in safety, game identification and overall procedures provides hunters and fishers with information and techniques to become more knowledgeable in the outdoors than ever before; and that will make them more successful and conscientious, regardless of where the Army takes them.
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