Youth and Education
Pheasants Forever chapters across the state of Minnesota are dedicated to passing on the hunting and conservation tradition to the next generation.
Conservation Days - often done in partnership with other conservation organization and wildlife agencies, these events focus on getting young kids (8-12) interested in the outdoors. They offer kids the opportunity to shoot various weapons and learn about hunting and other outdoor opportunities. The next step for these kids to take is to attend a hunter safety course.
Youth Mentor Hunts - Only 20% of youth who pass the hunter safety course actually grow up to be hunters. However, of those graduates that also attend a youth mentor hunt - 80% will hunt as adults. These events focus on a practical teaching of youth (especially those with limited opportunity) about the safety and enjoyment of hunting. Pheasants Forever has formed a partnership with the Metro and Central Big Brothers / Big Sisters Programs to reach out to those kids with the least amount of opportunity.
Habitat Projects - From tree plantings to habitat clean ups, chapters across the state coordinate youth activities that are focused on improving wildlife habitat.
Ringnecks - Pheasants Forever youth (8-18) go by the name " Ringnecks." They represent 20% of our population, but 100% of our future.
Leopold Education Project - the Leopold Education Program is part of the education arm of Pheasants Forever and provides training and materials to teachers who want to make conservation part of their classroom activities.