DNR firearms safety instructor is always on target

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DNR firearms safety instructor is always on target
(Released April 5, 2010)


The 2009 Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) volunteer Hunter Education Firearms Safety Instructor of the Year is Hermann von Knobelsdorff of Goodhue, Minn.
The DNR has presented this award since 1990 to recognize individuals who have made an outstanding effort to promote Hunter Education Firearms Safety in their communities.

“With more than 4,700 volunteer firearms safety instructors across Minnesota working through service clubs, churches, schools and community education, this is an excellent opportunity to acknowledge their contributions to the firearms safety program and to hunting safety of Minnesotans year round,” said Col. Jim Konrad, DNR Enforcement Division director.

Since becoming an instructor in 1998, von Knobelsdorff has played an active role in safety education in Goodhue and surrounding communities. He has ensured that hundreds of youth and adults can continue the tradition of hunting by completing Hunter Education Firearms Safety. Students who missed the field day portion of firearms safety training were invited to his farm to make sure they had an opportunity to complete the course requirements.

In many instances von Knobelsdorff paid the class fee for students who couldn’t afford to pay. A recent Frontenac Sportsmen’s Club donation enabled von Knobelsdorff to establish a scholarship program for youngsters interested in hunting who don’t have the necessary funds.

Also a member of Pheasants Forever, von Knobelsdorff was instrumental in establishing a pheasant hunting mentor program in the area. By doing so, many youngsters who did not have anyone else to introduce them to hunting got a chance to experience a quality mentored hunt.

“Because of his solid reputation and quality of instruction, parents from surrounding communities drive long distances to ensure their children take firearms safety training from Hermann,” said Capt. Mike Hammer, DNR Enforcement Education Program coordinator. “More important, he is always willing to work with students to ensure they successfully complete the program. He is truly an outstanding example of our statewide team of instructors.”

On March 27 at the Northwest Sportshow in Minneapolis, von Knobelsdorff was presented with a plaque and a firearm from National Marine Manufacturers Association and the Minnesota Firearms Instructors Association.