Online Course
Thank you for your interest in the Minnesota Trapper Education Program (MTEP) and the Online Trapper Certification Course (OTCC):
The MTEP was created through the joint effort of both the Minnesota Trappers Association (MTA) and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). This free-of-charge program was designed to improve new trapper’s knowledge of Minnesota’s furbearers and to provide basic information needed to trap them in a responsible and ethical manner. This exchange of techniques and methods will help those new to the sport avoid most of the frustrations encountered by trial and error. In addition, the course’s strong emphasis on ethical conduct, the respectful treatment of game, and sensitivity to public perception will ultimately benefit trappers, the game pursues, and the public’s attitude toward this sport in a positive manner.
The MTEP is comprised of two portions:
- In Classroom Training (or Online Trapper Certification Course)
- In Field Training
Whenever practical it is in everyone’s best interest to attend an in-classroom program. However, difficulties due to scheduling conflicts, long distances to the nearest classroom setting, and other complications, the OTCC is offered. Unfortunately, it is impossible to replace hands-on activities and instructor interaction with an online course. For these reasons, it is strongly suggested, but not required, that an OTCC graduate consider taking an in-classroom course at a later date for their own benefit.
Steps to Complete the Online Course:
1. Download the Minnesota Trapper Education Manual which will be your textbook for this course.
2. Complete the 9 Online Course Chapter readings. These are found by clicking on the “Online Course” page under “Education” in the Navigation bar. The course is designed for you to complete each chapter in the order it is listed. There is a review quiz at the end of each chapter. Go through each question carefully and make sure you understand the question. When you answer a question incorrectly, a pop-up will appear stating you have the incorrect answer. If this happens, try again. When you answer a question correctly, the next question will appear.
3. After you have successfully completed the quiz, move on to the next Online Course Chapter reading. After you have completed all 9 readings and quizzes all you have left to do is complete the Online Trapper Certification Course test. Click on the “MTA Final Exam” page under the “Online Course.” The test is comprised of true/false and multiple-choice questions. You are free to change your answers as many times as you like before submitting the exam.
4. When you have successfully completed the final test, you will be directed to a course completion page. On the bottom of the page there will be a form for you to complete and submit. By completing this form, the MTA Education Coordinator will be notified that you have passed the Online Trapper Certification Course test, thus qualifying you to take part in the In-Field Training portion that is required to complete the certification process. The In-Field Training forms and documents are available by clicking on the “Field Training Information” page.
5. Please click on the “Field Training Information” page under “Education” for information on completing the trapper certification process. Please send your instructor signed forms to: Shawn Johnson, MTA Education Coordinator, 6122 McQuade Rd, Duluth, MN 55804. If you have additional questions after reading all the materials provided on the website contact Shawn electronically at mcquaderoadfur@msn.com. Be certain to put “Trapper Certification” or something similar in the subject line to prevent your correspondence from going immediately to JUNK; or by telephone: (218) 525-4970. When leaving a message be certain to leave your first and last name as well as a contact number.
After you have completed the Online Trapper Certification Course and the In-Field Training, you will receive a certification card, a beautifully embroidered shoulder patch, and other materials available at that time. Your name will then be entered into the MDNR Electronic Licensing System (ELS) to pave the way to your license purchase.