DEC schedules tracking dog license exam for Aug. 27

ALBANY- The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) will offer a written examination for individuals interested in obtaining a license to use leashed tracking dogs to find wounded or injured big game animals on Friday, Aug. 27, from 10 a.m. until noon at designated DEC regional offices. All applicants for this exam must register before Aug. 20. Before this exam was first offered in 1990, DEC conducted experimental testing with a small group of leashed tracking dog handlers. Now there are approximately 175 licensed handlers in New York. Eligible applicants will be sent a letter of confirmation and a list of exam sites. The application fee is $25, which is non-refundable. The license fee is $50, payable at the same time as the application fee -- for a total of $75 in fees. If an applicant fails the exam, the $50 license fee is refunded. The leashed tracking dog license is valid for five years. For further information or to apply to take the exam, please contact:NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, Special Licenses Unit, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4752. Applications can also be obtained via: www.dec.ny.gov/permits/25020.html.