MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Outdoors enthusiasts can take great strides in understanding the Southeast's wildlife through an intense seven-week short course beginning in February.

The Master Wildlifer program will take place for three hours each Tuesday evening from Feb. 4 through March 18. Originating at Clemson University, the satellite conference will be available at three sites across Mississippi: Starkville, Raymond and Stoneville. Registration for the program is $75 per person, which will include instructional materials, a hat and refreshments. The deadline for registration is Jan. 9.

Ben West, wildlife specialist with Mississippi State University's Extension Service, is one of the site coordinators for Mississippi. This is the first year the course has been offered.

"Master Wildlifer is designed primarily for landowners who have an interest in wildlife management and have the resources to dedicate to developing better habitats," West said. "The program will help participants assess the resources on their property and give them ideas and techniques for managing specific wildlife species."

Species that will be discussed in the program include quail, rabbit, dove, turkey, waterfowl and deer.

To register for the course, contact the local county Extension Service office. For more information on the program, contact West at (662) 325-3174 or by e-mail at benw@ext.msstate.edu. A website is available at http://masterwildlifer.net/.