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RGS Recognized as 4-Star Charity

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02/27/17
Media Contact:
Matt Soberg
(218) 232-6227
editor@ruffedgrousesociety.org

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Ruffed Grouse Society Recognized as 4-Star Charity

PRESS RELEASE

451 McCormick Rd

Coraopolis PA 15108

412-262-4044 

For Immediate Release

February 8, 2017

Coraopolis, PA – The Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS) was recently honored with a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent charity evaluator. The 4-star rating is a result of RGS maintaining sound fiscal management practices and a commitment to accountability and transparency in its efforts to preserve our sporting traditions by creating healthy forest habitat for ruffed grouse, American woodcock and many other forest wildlife species.

“We are again honored to receive this 4-star Charity Navigator rating for demonstrating strong financial health and commitment to accountability and transparency,” said RGS President and CEO John Eichinger. “This achievement is the result of a collective Ruffed Grouse Society effort by a dedicated board of directors, committed members, passionate volunteers and a talented staff.”

Since 2002, Charity Navigator has awarded only the most fiscally responsible organizations a 4-star rating. In 2011, Charity Navigator added 17 metrics, focused on governance and ethical practices as well as measures of openness, to its ratings methodology.  These “Accountability & Transparency” metrics, which account for 50 percent of a charity’s overall rating, reveal which charities have “best practices” that minimize the chance of unethical activities and whether they freely share basic information about their organization with their donors and other stakeholders.

“The Ruffed Grouse Society’s coveted 4-star rating puts it in a very select group of high-performing charities,” said Michael Thatcher, president and CEO of Charity Navigator. “Out of the thousands of nonprofits Charity Navigator evaluates, only one out of four earns 4 stars – a rating that demands rigor, responsibility and commitment to openness.  Ruffed Grouse Society’s supporters should feel much more confident that their hard-earned dollars are being used efficiently and responsibly when it acquires such a high rating.”

The RGS rating and other information about charitable giving are available free of charge on www.charitynavigator.org.

About Charity Navigator

Charity Navigator, www.charitynavigator.org, is the largest charity evaluator in America, and its website attracts more visitors than all other charity rating groups combined. The organization helps guide intelligent giving by evaluating the financial health and accountability and transparency of more than 8,000 charities. Charity Navigator accepts no advertising or donations from the organizations it evaluates, ensuring unbiased evaluations, nor does it charge the public for this trusted data. As a result, Charity Navigator, a 501 (c) (3) public charity itself, depends on support from individuals, corporations and foundations that believe it provides a much-needed service to America’s charitable givers. Charity Navigator, can be reached directly by telephone at (201) 818-1288, or by mail at 139 Harristown Road, Suite 101, Glen Rock, N.J., 07452.

Established in 1961, The Ruffed Grouse Society/American Woodcock Society is North America’s foremost conservation organization dedicated to preserving our sporting traditions by creating healthy forest habitat for ruffed grouse, American woodcock and other wildlife. RGS/AWS works with landowners and government agencies to develop critical habitat utilizing scientific management practices.

Information on RGS/AWS, its mission, management projects and membership can be found on the web at: www.ruffedgrousesociety.org.

THEY SAID IT! . . . Best Quotes from the Spring RGS Magazine

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THEY SAID IT! . . . Best Quotes from the Spring RGS Magazine

By Matt Soberg

Are you an upland hunter?  Bird dog owner? Shotgun lover?

Have you become afflicted by the grouse and woodcock hunting addiction? Do you care about the future of our sporting traditions?

If you answer “yes” to any of the above, the Ruffed Grouse Society magazine is a must see – a one stop shop for everything grouse and woodcock hunting and forest habitat conservation – hunting tips, bird dog info, gun reviews, book reviews, cooking recipes, classic hunting stories, habitat management information . . . the list goes on and on.

spring coverThe Ruffed Grouse Society magazine comes as a member benefit – not only do you get all this grouse and woodcock hunting information, but your membership gives back to the resource we cherish of healthy forest habitat and abundant grouse and woodcock populations.

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They said it! Here are some of the best quotes from the upcoming Spring 2017 Ruffed Grouse Society magazine . . .

SPORTING TRADITIONS

“Much of the pleasure of shooting is what accompanies it and sharing it all with a good friend.” ~ George Bird Evans, The Upland Shooting Life (1971)

sporting traditiosn“The thought of losing the little things we love about grouse and woodcock hunting, some as simple as twirling a tail feather in your fingers, watching a puppy’s first day afield and shaking the hand of a smiling new hunter, reveals truly what is at stake for the future of our sporting traditions if we don’t strive to create healthy forests now.” ~ “Editor Note – The Little Things” by RGS & AWS Editor Matt Soberg

“Childhood memories of hunting with my father revolved around the pursuit of cottontails . . . I became as excited as an English setter prior to a grouse hunt when I found out we were headed to the nearby woodpiles and swamps . . . I didn’t spin circles or white nonstop, but set to work gathering vests, shells and guns in preparation for another grand adventure in the woods with Dad.” ~ “Gift Guns” by Kirk Brumels

“If you’re a piece of work similar to either a Van Gogh or a Velvet Elvis, you won’t find them here. Instead, you’ll find a wonderful variety of work that ranges from oils, etchings, line drawings, parchment and ink, watercolors, pastels, wood burnings, carvings and folk art. It’s tough to tell if this crew are bird hunters first and artists second. In the end, it doesn’t matter, for whether they’re running dogs or working in their studios, they are as serious as a heart attack.” ~ “Art from the Uplands and the Lowlands” by Tom Keer

CONSERVATION

“We cannot and will not allow the Forest Service to continue their failure to provide the young forest habitats required by the ruffed grouse, American woodcock, golden-winged warbler and other game and nongame wildlife on national forests throughout the Eastern United States.” ~ “President’s Message – Cup Half Full or Half Empty?” RGS & AWS President & CEO John Eichinger

pres message“Thought must be given to both site-specific and landscape-scale goals if we are to maximize the value of our work for the species and communities about which we care.” ~ “Adjusting Our Scope to Maximize the Value of Forest Management” by RGS & AWS Regional Biologist Scott Walter

“The failure of the Endangered Species Act to live up to its promise is in part due to elements of the legislation that, although well intentioned, have become substantial hurdles to its successful implementation, in part due to agency and judicial interpretations that have become barriers rather than pathways to success, and in part due to over-zealous preservationists seemingly more interested in producing lists than protecting species.” ~ “RGS Voice – Protecting Species?” by RGS & AWS Director of Conservation Policy Dan Dessecker

SHOTGUNS

“So the next time you miss a grouse or two or even three, you may not need to swear into the wind after missing a relatively easy straight away and proclaim out loud that you may be the world’s worst wing shot . . . the answer may simply be that you own one of the poorest fitting grouse guns in America. If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit!” ~ “In Search of the Perfect Grouse Gun . . . “ By Bryan E. Bilinski

“Maybe we don’t see enough pump guns in the grouse woods and woodcock bottoms these days. Back in say the 1920s and beyond, pump guns predominated – all because they were less expensive, extremely durable and light compared to semi-autos of yesteryear. If you’re not a pump gun guy or gal, maybe it’s time to re-think that position.” ~ “A Pump Gun for Grouse and Woodcock” by Nick Sisley

BIRD DOGS

“We love our bird dogs, though admittedly, many of us have a tendency to be “kennel blind” from time to time. Admit it . . . Guilty as charged . . . I strive to learn every time I go to the field. Here are a few of my observations from seasons past . . . “ ~ “Tips from Purina Pro Plan – Mind Your Bird Dog Manners” by Keith Schopp

“Dogs have 319 bones, compared to our 206. We all – humans and canines – have lots of joints connecting those bones. And as we all know, it’s tough to get a sporting dog to go slow.” ~ “Purely Dogs – Joint Health and Injury Prevention” by Bob West and Lisa Price

habitatBOOK REVIEWS

“His tales are not built on the redundant plot of points, flushes, gun report and success or failure . . . Each should be individually savored, as they were written as stand-alone works. Among the Aspens is not just a place to spend time each autumn, but an insightful read, enjoyable no matter the season.” ~ Glen R. Blackwood review of Among the Aspens by Thomas Carney

COOKING

“I have sought to create a recipe that aims to celebrate the ritualistic nature of returning home from the woods after a great day bagging grouse.” ~ “Roasted Grouse with Hunter-Style Gravy” by Jack Hennessy

FUTURE HUNTERS/CONSERVATIONISTS

“I am convinced more than ever that conservation is crucial to the future of our wildlife. It has become my personal challenge to recruit other teenagers to the join the efforts of my peers who attended the Wildlife Leadership Academy.” ~ “My Wildlife Leadership Academy Experience” by WLA Attendee Zara Moss

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Check out a sneak peek of the Ruffed Grouse Society magazine or become a member at www.ruffed.org to start getting the magazine in your mailbox. For a limited time get the magazine, an RGS-patched had, a Jay Dowd artwork long-sleeve T-shirt, and a chance to win a SportDOG Tek 2.0 – only $35. www.ruffed.org

2017 Wisconsin Drummer Fund Projects

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02/24/17

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PRESS RELEASE

451 McCormick Rd

Coraopolis PA 15108

412-262-4044

For Immediate Release

Ruffed Grouse Society Provides Record $119,227 to Improve Wildlife Habitat and Hunter Access in Wisconsin

Coraopolis, PA – The Ruffed Grouse Society and its sister organization, the American Woodcock Society, are pleased to provide $119,227 to support 18 outstanding projects in Wisconsin that will enhance habitat for young forest wildlife and increase hunter access to prime hunting areas. Partners will bring an additional $199,811 to complete these projects resulting in over $319,000 in forest habitat improvements during 2017. Over 1,789 acres will be enhanced directly; funds used to support expanded landowner outreach efforts and forest access road improvements will indirectly support habitat improvements on thousands of additional acres.  Over 88 miles of hunter walking trails will also be created or enhanced with these funds.  To accomplish these projects, RGS/AWS will partner with the United States Forest Service, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Wisconsin County Forests Association, Class ACT Charter School in Park Falls, Price, Eau Claire, Langlade and Marinette counties, and the city of Merrill. 

RGS/AWS members hold local banquets each year to generate the Wisconsin Drummer Fund, which supports proactive conservation work in the State. The Drummer Fund was supplemented in 2017 by donations from the David V. Uihlein family, David Wahl and the Susan Smith family. The T. Stanton Armour, Rib Mountain, Flambeau River and Marinette County RGS chapters also provided important funding for these projects via additional fundraising events held throughout the year. 

“Our increasing support for forest conservation work in Wisconsin stems directly from the dedication and investment of our members, who clearly understand the challenges faced by forest wildlife and the need for appropriate management,” said John Eichinger, RGS/AWS President and CEO. “The Wisconsin Drummer Fund allows the Ruffed Grouse Society and American Woodcock Society to directly apply our mission of supporting healthy forests, abundant wildlife and sporting traditions to boots-on-the ground conservation work that enhances both our forested landscapes and the public’s ability to enjoy them.” 

RGS/AWS has been a dedicated supporter of forest habitat work in Wisconsin since 1985. Since that time, RGS has contributed over $1 million in support of active forest management efforts across the state. “Disturbance is a natural and critical component of healthy forests, ensuring that the diverse array of habitats required by forest wildlife are present,” noted RGS/AWS Regional Biologist Scott Walter. “The Drummer Fund therefore allows our members to play a direct and meaningful role in forest wildlife conservation.” 

Wisconsin Drummer Fund Projects approved for 2017 include:

  • Rahm Access Project- Price County
  • Wisconsin Young Forest Partnership- 21 northern Wisconsin counties
  • Eagle River/Florence Hunter Walking Trails- Vilas and Florence counties
  • Marinette County Aspen Regeneration- Marinette County
  • Woodboro Lakes Wildlife Area Hunter Walking Trail Network- Oneida County
  • Marathon County Young Forest Management-  Marathon County
  • Hunter Walking Trails and Alder Management- Langlade County
  • Parkland Aspen Regeneration-  Douglas County
  • Promoting Ruffed Grouse Hunting on County Forests- 12 county forest parcels
  • School Forest Ruffed Grouse Project-  Ashland County
  • Clam Lake Wildlife Area Habitat Improvement- Burnett County
  • Blockhouse Alder Shearing- Price County
  • Tamarack Creek Wildlife Area Shrub Regeneration- Trempealeau County
  • Merrill Memorial Forest Wildlife Area Alder Project- Lincoln County
  • Hunter Access & Grouse/Woodcock Habitat Improvement- Eau Claire County
  • Hunter Walking Trail Improvement Project-  Langlade County
  • Colburn Wildlife Area Aspen & Alder Regeneration- Adams County
  • Forest Wildlife Specialist Position- Northwest Wisconsin counties

For more information on the Ruffed Grouse Society and American Woodcock Society, go to www.ruffedgrousesociety.org, and to find out more about RGS/AWS habitat programs, contact Scott Walter at (608) 538-3840 or ScottW@ruffedgrousesociety.org.


Established in 1961, The Ruffed Grouse Society/American Woodcock Society is North America’s foremost conservation organization dedicated to preserving our sporting traditions by creating healthy forest habitat for ruffed grouse, American woodcock and other wildlife. RGS/AWS works with landowners and government agencies to develop critical habitat utilizing scientific management practices.

Information on RGS/AWS, its mission, management projects and membership can be found on the web at: www.ruffedgrousesociety.org.

Media Contact:

Scott Walter

RGS/AWS Regional Wildlife Biologist

(608) 538-3840

ScottW@ruffedgrousesociety.org

What is it like to watch a drummer?

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CONNECTING THE DOTS . . . From Habitat to Hunting

By Matt Soberg, RGS & AWS Editor & Director of Communications

This is what it’s like to watch a spring drummer connect the dots from habitat to hunting . . .

2 (1024x728)I lifted my Kromer above my left ear thinking I had heard a faint rustle of leaves down the hill from my strategically placed location. I set my Thermos cup of coffee onto the ground’s newly-green, late-April shoots and leaned my head forward toward one of the opened blind windows for a better vantage point. Sure enough, my ears were right . . . the pitter-patter of small feet traipsing across the forest floor was getting closer . . . and louder . . . and closer.

As I carefully, and ever so slowly, peeked out the left -corner window, I set eyes on a young forest moment that is more surreal than you can adequately explain. I knew I was in for a real show, my first time. Through the lowlight of that early morning landscape, I watched that male red-phased ruff approach not as slow and careful as I long-expected, but with a confident air about him. For, as you all know, he was approaching HIS drumming log, his throne so-to-speak, that special place that was his alone, and it seemed that he wanted all to know that he was present.

With great agility, he jumped onto the mossy log, walked back-and-forth turning twice, got himself comfortable and instantly began drumming, wasting no time. The forest was so quiet that morning, I guarantee all creatures, grouse and predators alike, knew exactly where he was performing at that very place and at that very moment. It was quite obvious, as with every booming burst of his drumming act, he was letting all know that the King of the Woods was here.

4 (1024x636)He stood in nearly the same exact place on the log for over two hours, hardly ever moved except for drumming, and I was a lucky spectator for every second of it. He moved his head from left to right, carefully scanning the immediate area for movement and only occasionally reached his beak toward his fanned-tail to groom his backside. While he stood still, I even watched him periodically close his eyes, almost like napping or maybe basking in the early morning, rising sun. When open, his eyes were wide, bright and vibrant, seemingly looking deep into my soul although he didn’t know I was there.

With every drumming sequence, he’d stick his head high, slick back his crest, stick out his chest, cup his wings, brace himself with fan-to-log and with effortless athleticism, he’d beat his wings the same every time. The sound would literally shake my body, and it is hard to explain if the scene and its effects should best be described as graceful or furious. The sequence would always end the same . . . he’d abruptly stop with his chest out and tail fanned, and at that instant he would perk up his crest, straight up . . . a look of graceful fury, convinced he was king.

1 (1024x768)To be quite honest, I’m not sure which grouse event I enjoy more . . . watching his majesty perform his spring ritual in-person from 20 yards away or following my birddog hoping to see a mere glimpse of the king flushing through the young forest in the fall. I’m not sure I want to choose . . . it is moments and experiences like this that guide one’s understanding of why we strive to create habit for forest wildlife.

We will cease to enjoy our cherished sporting traditions without spring drummers, and that beating of wings cannot happen without the proper habitat supporting young forest wildlife. It all goes hand-in-hand.

This article first appeared in the Ruffed Grouse Society magazine.

President’s Message – And Now It’s Our Turn . . .

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President's MessageEvery four years, the confluence of hunting season and the national general election causes me to think about our freedom, democracy and our passion for hunting grouse and woodcock that we so deeply cherish. I think about this in two ways: 1) we hunt grouse and woodcock because we can, and 2) we hunt grouse and woodcock because someone was there to help us get started.IMG_3271 (1024x719)

We often hear that hunting is a privilege – which it is. We often hear that the percentage of hunters in North America is in decline – which it is. What many do not realize is that there is more recreational hunting in North America, and more hunters afield, than practically anywhere else in the world.

That reality occurred because our forefathers declared that wildlife belongs to the general public, not the person who owns the land which is in direct contrast to the European approach where wildlife belongs to the landowner. That reality occurred because our forefathers granted the right for citizens to possess firearms. That reality also occurred because conservationists, more than 100 years ago, adopted the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, where hunters like Theodore Roosevelt and George Bird Grinnell led sportsmen to regulate hunting and organize sportsmen’s groups, which eventually led to a sustainable mechanism to fund scientifically sound wildlife restoration efforts by taxing ourselves.

The principles of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation are explained more fully through a set of guidelines known as the Seven Sisters for Conservation.

Sister #1 – Wildlife is Held in the Public Trust. In North America, natural resources and wildlife on public lands are managed by government agencies to ensure that current and future generations always have wildlife and wild places to enjoy.

Sister #2 – Prohibition on Commerce of Dead Wildlife. Commercial hunting and the sale of wildlife is prohibited to ensure the sustainability of wildlife populations.

Sister #3 – Democratic Rule of Law. Hunting and fishing laws are created through the public process where everyone has the opportunity and responsibility to develop systems of wildlife conservation and use.

Sister #4 – Hunting Opportunity for All. Every citizen has an opportunity, under the law, to hunt and fish in the United States and Canada.

Sister #5 – Non-Frivolous Use. In North America, individuals may legally kill certain wild animals under strict guidelines for food and fur, self-defense and property protection. Laws restrict against the casual killing of wildlife merely for antlers, horns or feathers.

Sister #6 – International Resources. Wildlife and fish migrate freely across boundaries between states, provinces and countries. Working together, the United States and Canada jointly coordinate wildlife and habitat management strategies. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 demonstrates this cooperation between countries to protect wildlife. The Act made it illegal to capture or kill migratory birds, except as allowed by specific hunting regulations.

Sister #7 – Scientific Management. Sound science is essential to managing and sustaining North America’s wildlife and habitats. For example, scientific management of our nation’s forests creates habitat diversity that benefits a wide array of wildlife including ruffed grouse, American woodcock, numerous species of songbirds, white-tailed deer and more.

IMG_0802 (1024x683)This rich hunting heritage, and the precious privileges and freedoms we enjoy today are borne on the backs of many wise and dedicated sportsmen of past generations. And now it’s our turn – which brings me to the second thought I mentioned earlier: we hunt grouse and woodcock because someone was there to help us get started.

Most people do not just wake up one morning and decide they are going to go grouse or woodcock hunting that day, even though they had never been before. In the remaining days left this season, take someone out to the woods for their first grouse and woodcock hunt. Make an early New Year’s resolution to get involved with, or start, an RGS Mentor Hunter Program in your area. The Women’s Introduction to Wingshooting has been a great success, but we need more chapters to get one started.

It’s not as hard as you might think! These are turn-key programs with RGS creating all the booklets, guides, patches, teaching aids and other resources you need to get one going. Mark Fouts will be there every step of the way to help ensure your program is a success.

This is our heritage. Don’t let this be the last generation to enjoy it!

This President’s Message was first published in the Winter 2016 issue of the Ruffed Grouse Society magazine.