Hunters of Color Family Hunt Helps Open Doors to Hunting
EDGEFIELD, S.C. – In September, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, in collaboration with Hunters of Color, hosted the Hunters of Color Family Hunt and Workshop, an event aimed at introducing new hunters to the outdoors through a hands-on, educational experience. The National Wild Turkey Federation, along with other conservation organizations, proudly partnered in this event to provide mentorship and training for individuals who may have otherwise not been offered the opportunity to engage in the life-changing power of the outdoors.
The workshop took place at the E.E. Wilson Wildlife Area and offered 20 participants — each with little to no prior hunting experience — the chance to complete hunter education certification and a shotgun skills clinic. Throughout the weekend, participants also gained valuable knowledge on firearm safety, hunting with dogs, proper care for upland game bird meat and hunting license requirements. The event's main focus was to provide a positive and engaging experience that would inspire new hunters to continue their pursuit.
The event drew participants from the Hunters of Color website, focused on recruiting from underrepresented communities, aiming to make hunting more accessible and inclusive, and helping to cultivate the next generation of lifetime hunters.
“We are excited about the Hunters of Color event and think it has a lot of potential to grow,” said Josh Williams, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife E.E. Wilson habitat technician. “Thanks so much for everything; these events wouldn’t be possible without the NWTF’s contribution.”
The weekend-long hunt proved to be a resounding success. On day one, 17 hunters harvested 20 pheasants, and day two saw 20 hunters harvest 27 birds. Participants had the opportunity to hunt exclusive, designated fields for the event, receive guidance and mentorship from expert dog handlers and enjoy lunch provided by the Oregon Hunters Association. After the hunt, participants attended a processing and butchering demonstration to learn how to properly prepare their harvest.
As part of the NWTF commitment to preserving our hunting heritage, NWTF looks forward to future collaborations that help expand access to outdoor opportunities for all.
About the National Wild Turkey Federation
Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation and has positively impacted over 23 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The NWTF has also invested over $10 million into wild turkey research to guide the management of the wild turkey population and to ensure sustainable populations into perpetuity. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale through its Four Shared Values: clean and abundant water, healthy forests and wildlife habitat, resilient communities, and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF continues its work to provide Healthy Habitats. and Healthy Harvests. for future generations.