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DEFIANCE, Mo.—One of the rewards of deer hunting is the chance to bring home fresh, healthy meat from the field. You know where it comes from, so why not take the next step, and learn how it’s processed, too?
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering hunters a chance to master the skills of processing venison at a Field to Freezer class at August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center. The class is free and will be held Saturday, Oct. 31 from 8 – 9:30 a.m.
“This program is ideal for anyone interested in processing their own deer,” said Bryant Hertel, MDC outdoor education center manager. “Doing the processing yourself not only helps save money but also gives you the ability to cut and season the venison your way,” said Hertel.
The program will cover the steps necessary to enable hunters to process deer meat for themselves. MDC staff will detail the field-dressing process. There will also be a live demonstration on how to skin and butcher a deer in simple, easy steps.
The presentation will include information on the equipment needed, safety considerations, and show how to get deer meat ready for freezer storage and preparing it for the table. The class will go into the best cuts of venison for steaks and roasts, and which portions that can be ground into burger. Participants will learn tips on how to make sure their venison is the highest quality possible.
Field to Freezer is a free program; however, advanced online registration is required at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/ogN.
The August A. Busch Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center is located in Defiance at 3550 Route D, approximately five miles west of Highway 94.
Sign up for email or text alerts to stay informed of MDC’s latest programs and events by going to https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoP.
MDC is committed to accessibility at all its nature centers, regional facilities, and conservation areas. To request an ADA accommodation for participation in MDC programs, visit https://mdc.mo.gov/accessibility.
