Pennsylvania deer hunters can learn more about venison with this Penn State class
Penn State Extension will offer 'Venison 101' again this year. It's a popular hands-on course for hunters to get a comprehensive look at venison butchering, processing and cooking.
Online components will combine with an in-person workshop — scheduled for 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 22, to help hunters and butchers learn how to handle venison. The in-person class will take place at the Penn State Meat Laboratory on the University Park campus.
Due to recent demand, organizers decided to offer another 'Venison 101' session.
'As Pennsylvania experiences a shortage of butchers, the course offers hunters and their families an opportunity to learn how to process their own meat, enhancing both their skills and the value of their harvest,' Catherine Cutter, professor of food science in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences, said.
POLICE: Former NFL player charged with DUI after crash in Centre County
Over the years, a hybrid format was created, blending online lessons with a full-day hands on workshop.
Online, you'll learn about the history of hunting, deer ecology, field dressing, chronic wasting disease, carcass processing and recipes. You can also learn about canning, dehydration for jerky and freezing.
The in-person session will focus on knife safety, processing, sausage and bologna, smoking, and cooking methods — including a chili cook-off.
'I was impressed with the knowledge and passion all the teachers had on the subjects they were teaching,' a past participant noted. 'I will definitely recommend the class to family and friends if you have it again.'A team of experts will run the course, which includes a wildlife specialist, veterinarian, meat scientist and food safety experts.
More information is available by clicking here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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