RINGNECKS
(15 years and under)

get 4 issues of Ringnecks youth magazine

Youth Education

The health and sustainability of our natural resources, including wildlife, is becoming increasingly dependent on the values we instill in today’s youth. Their decisions will have a direct impact on the health of wildlife habitat and the future of upland bird and wildlife populations. For that reason, Pheasants Forever High Plains Chapter 321 is dedicated to ensuring positive experiences and activities for youth to increase conservation education and awareness levels, as well as foster a land ethic for our natural environment.

For generations, elders have passed on the traditions of their outdoor heritage to the next generation - through stories, shared experiences and support and encouragement. Times have changed, however, and not all young people have those opportunities today. Families have changed, lifestyles have changed, and the land has changed. Yet those who treasure hunting and other outdoor experiences recognize the importance of still passing on traditions in whatever ways possible.

Due to increased urbanization, loss of small farms, less leisure time, and more school activities, youngsters today are becoming more alienated from the land. One means of combating this movement away from the natural environment is through youth programs and mentor relationships. Having a responsible role model in today's single parent society is becoming increasingly important in guiding children to find their own conservation ethic.

To assist organizations in developing Youth Group Programs, the Pheasants Forever Education Department developed the Ringnecks Manual. The manual provides specific information for implementing youth programs and for connecting dedicated mentors to interested young people. Found inside the manual are outlines for successful youth mentoring programs, basic "How To's" for coordinating a youth program, and examples of existing Pheasants Forever chapter programs. These examples share activities such as youth hunts, monthly programs on hunting, fishing or conservation and shorter one day activities like planting trees or building nest boxes. In addition, information about recruiting volunteers, promoting youth programs, seeking help from the community, and avoiding problems are included in the manual. Background information is also offered on the entire Ringnecks program and the Leopold Education Project (LEP).