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An article in the July issue of Field & Stream is a must-read for deer hunters. “The New Science Behind Better Deer Hunting” turns many long-held beliefs into myths. The piece, authored by Bill Heavy, uses scientific research to explain how deer see, hear and react to certain situations.

The author tells us that the “Doe in heat bleat” never happens. Yet he explains why a bleat call works. Research has revealed that rut movement is far different than we suspect. Think the dominant buck breeds the majority of the does because they win most of the fights. Better read the facts.

We have been led to believe we can manage a property for big buck by culling ones with inferior racks. Read why this only works in small fenced areas. What is important about camo? It’s is not the pattern. Find out what is important in the July issue of Field & Stream. Finally, is there one color a deer can distinguish? The answer is yes, and it is not blaze orange.

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Have you ever thought about what you would do if you, a family member or a friend were injured and there was no immediate medical help available? Now there is something you can do to help.

The Indiana State Parks and Reservoirs, in cooperation with St. Vincent Hospital, is offering two, 2-day Wilderness First Aid courses at two state parks this summer. One course is at Prophetstown State Park on July 12 and 13. A second course will be at McCormick’s Creek State Park on Aug. 2 and 3. Classes for the courses run from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. They will provide participants with the opportunity to earn WFA certification in a fun and interactive environment taught by qualified EMS educators. Only one weekend needs to be attended.

Wilderness medicine involves providing first aid or more advanced patient care to the sick and injured that are more than one hour from definitive medical care. Situations involving wilderness medicine can include hiking, camping, hunting and fishing in remote areas, or providing care in an urban environment that has been ravaged by a natural or man-made disaster.

The course is $130 per person and includes textbook, handouts, WFA certification good for three years, and gate entrance fee. Minimum age for participation is 14. A parental consent signature on the application form is required for participants younger than 18.

Space is limited. The registration deadline for the Prophetstown State Park course is June 27. The registration deadline for the McCormick’s Creek State Park course is July 18. For further details and a registration form, visit www.interpretiveservices.in.gov or call (317) 338-4354.