Deer stalking course success

Countryside Alliance Ireland member, Jimmy Donaghy, recently organised a Deer Stalking Qualification (DSC) course to help people reach the required standard to help manage the deer population.

Deer are estimated to cause more than £8.8 million of damage annually to forest and agricultural crops in the UK. Not only are there financial consequences with unmanaged deer populations, but habitat loss is another major impact.

The Level 1 is a basic qualification aimed at the newcomer to deer stalking and is open to everyone over the age of 18. The course was held at Dunnyboe Target Club where the instructor, Jamie Stewart, who has over 25 years’ experience stalking deer throughout the UK, put the students through their paces.

While the weather may not have been kind, sprits we’re high and the students were very competent on the range. From the outset they demonstrated an understanding of the knowledge that was required thanks to the pre-course manual.

Given the success, it is hoped further courses will run in the future. We will keep you updated, however, if you wish to express your interest in completing your DSC 1 or in target shooting, please get in touch and we will signpost you to the relevant person.