NWTF Chapters Invest in Tomorrow’s Turkey Hunters in Oregon
EDGEFIELD, S.C. — As spring edges closer and gobbles begin to echo through Oregon’s timber, preparation for turkey season is already well underway. For hunters in southern Oregon, that preparation started with mentorship and hands-on learning, equipping the next generation of hunters with the skills and confidence needed for a successful season.
At the Roseburg Rod and Gun Club, hunter education instructor and NWTF member Steve Granger brought his vision to life through his nonprofit, Douglas County Outdoor Awareness. The organization hosted a hands-on turkey hunting workshop designed to equip both youth and adults with the skills and confidence needed for a successful and ethical season.
The workshop welcomed 19 JAKES and nine adult participants, all eager to learn and connect with experienced mentors ahead of the upcoming season.
NWTF’s Southern Oregon Buglin’ Toms and Oregon Coastal Cutters chapters joined as supporting partners, alongside the Oregon Hunters Association, helping expand the reach and impact of the event.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in hands-on learning experiences designed to build a strong foundation in hunting knowledge and skills. Youth had the opportunity to pattern their shotguns, gaining an understanding of effective range and shot placement, complete hunter education requirements and participate in a Turkey Hunting 101 workshop covering calling techniques, scouting strategies and in-field decision-making.
But just as important as the technical skills was the atmosphere.
Volunteers worked side by side with youth, answering questions, sharing stories and passing down lessons that can only come from time spent in the woods. Each interaction helped build not only knowledge but confidence that turns a first hunt into a lifelong passion.
“The volunteers make the magic happen,” said Lori Miller, NWTF Southern Oregon Buglin’ Toms Chapter president.
That magic was evident throughout the day, from the excitement around prize drawings to patterning at the range. Every participant walked away with a build-your-own box call, donated by NWTF Oregon, and for one lucky attendee, the day culminated in winning a Winchester SXP Turkey Hunter shotgun, donated by the Oregon Hunters Association.
While prizes and gear add excitement, the true value of the day runs deeper.
Events like this are critical to the future of hunting and conservation. Across the country, agencies and organizations recognize the importance of Recruitment, Retention and Reactivation (R3) efforts, and at the heart of those efforts is one simple truth: if we want to conserve wildlife and preserve our hunting heritage, we must invest in the next generation.
For many young participants, this workshop represents their first real step into the hunting world. Without opportunities like this, the barriers to entry, including access to knowledge, equipment and mentorship, can feel overwhelming. By removing those barriers, NWTF chapters and partners are opening doors that might otherwise remain closed.
As opening day approaches in Oregon, these young hunters won’t just be heading into the woods with new skills; they’ll be carrying with them the support of a community that is investing in their future.
Established in 1981, the NWTF’s JAKES program is dedicated to informing, educating and involving youths 17 and younger in wildlife conservation and the wise stewardship of our natural resources. JAKES events help pass on the traditions of responsible hunting and teach the principles of habitat management, hunting ethics and safety.
For $10 a year, JAKES receive a one-year subscription to JAKES Country magazine (four issues), a chance to win a hunt of a lifetime and a membership card.
In addition to JAKES Day events, NWTF chapters across the country host various events that engage youth in the outdoors, including mentored hunts for a variety of game species. Learn how you can get involved as a volunteer with the NWTF or look for an upcoming JAKES event in your area.
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 25 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. Since 2022, the NWTF has also invested over $2.3 million in critical wild turkey research that, when leveraged with partner contributions, has resulted in more than $22 million to guide the management of the wild turkey and to ensure sustainable populations. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale to deliver healthy forests and wildlife habitats, clean and abundant water, resilient communities and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF continues to unite a nation through the life-changing power of the outdoors.