IHEA-USA Launches Scout: The Future of Hunting Information and Regulation Guidance
July 22, 2024

The International Hunters Education Association (IHEA-USA) is proud to announce the launch of Scout, a cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) platform designed to revolutionize how hunters access vital information and stay compliant with hunting regulations. Understanding the rules and regulations of hunting can be tricky, and Scout is here to help. Each state has its own guidelines identifying what is legal in the field, including species harvest limits and important differences between hunting units, districts, zones, and more. Try out Scout here: https://scout.ihea-usa.org/

With Scout, hunters can easily get answers to their questions about hunting regulations. Simply ask Scout your question to ensure you are responsible and compliant in the field on your next hunt. Additionally, users can download a digital version of the most recent rules and regulations for their state, making it easier than ever to stay informed and prepared. This innovative platform is set to transform the way hunters learn and adhere to regulations, making hunting safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

Alex Baer, the IHEA-USA Executive Director adds, "Scout is not only beneficial for hunters but also aids the agencies we serve. One of our goals with Scout is to assist agencies in creating future versions of regulations that better match modern search methods. It's amazing what AI is capable of, and it's time our industry understands that power."

By providing unique monthly reports to each state regulations team, Scout helps agencies understand how hunters interact with regulations and identify common questions and concerns. "Our goal is to assist agencies in creating future versions of regulations that better match modern search methods, ensuring that the rules are accessible and clear for everyone".

Some Agencies are already helping to test this new program's effectiveness. The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources helped test Scout in their call center to handle questions on regulations, demonstrating Scout's practical applications and effectiveness.

Since its launch, Scout has received thousands of submissions and has proven to be a valuable tool for both hunters and wildlife agencies since May. As a closed AI system, only the most current information that each state provides is available for search.

This product launch aligns with IHEA-USA's mission to serve hunting and shooting sports educators worldwide by developing and implementing standards and resources based on research that promote safe, responsible, and ethical practices while fostering partner communication. Scout exemplifies our commitment to providing modern, high-quality, data-based tools that enhance safety and responsibility in the field.

For more information about Scout and to explore its features, visit https://scout.ihea-usa.org. If you or your organization is interested in supporting future innovation for our industry from IHEA, please email sponsorship@ihea-usa.org.

About IHEA-USA:

The International Hunters Education Association is dedicated to promoting hunter education, safety, and responsible hunting practices. With a network of instructors and resources, IHEA-USA strives to ensure that hunters are well-informed and prepared. For more information, visit https://www.ihea-usa.org.