Since 2003, all those trapping wildlife outside of the regular season must be licensed as a Wildlife Control Operator (WCO) by the N.H. Fish and Game Department.

There are two types of WCO licenses, Level I and Level II. Level I operators may only trap furbearers, woodchucks and porcupines outside of the season and must obtain an $11 license in addition to the regular trapping license.

Level II operators are engaged in the commercial practice of trapping nuisance animals. The fee for such license is $101 for residents and $301 for non-residents.

In addition to the fee, every Level II WCO must complete a 6-hour workshop or maintain a national certification through the National Wildlife Control Operators Association (NWCOA).

The New Hampshire Trappers Association, the New Hampshire Wildlife Control Operators Association and the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department from time to time conduct a 6-hour training class covering:

• Legal aspects of WCO activities
• Biology of target species
• Euthanasia
• Best Management Practices
• Disease risk
• Federal laws
• USDA Wildlife Services activities

Click here for information on when the next WCO Operators class is scheduled, plus additional details on the training class, which is offered free of charge. WCO Operators classes are generally held once each year, in January.

Completion of a Trapper Education class is also required. Click here for schedule of Trapper Education classes.

For more information, contact Patrick Tate, N.H. Fish and Game Department, at (603) 868-1095.