ABOUT RGS & AWS
Our Mission
RGS & AWS unites conservationists to improve wildlife habitat and forest health for ruffed grouse, American woodcock and ALL forest wildlife. We promote forest stewardship for our forests, our wildlife and our future.
No other group in the conservation space is so focused on forest wildlife. Forests are essential, not just for wildlife, but for all life. As we face unprecedented challenges, forests will play an increasingly important life-sustaining role.
Our Vision
Ecological: We envision landscapes of diverse, functioning forest ecosystems that provide homes for wildlife and opportunities for people to experience them. Ruffed grouse and American woodcock are bellwethers of forest conditions; they can only persist in healthy, diverse forests. These same forests clean the air, filter water and support local communities.
Organizational: RGS & AWS becomes a key player in forest conservation delivery, with renowned forest wildlife professionals leading impactful alliances.
Core Purpose
Our purpose is to facilitate sustainable forest management for wildlife.
Location & Team
RGS & AWS began in 1961 in Monterey, VA. Now headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, our organization employs a team of forest wildlife conservation professionals to work with private landowners, and government, including local, state and federal, land managers who are interested in improving their land for Ruffed Grouse, American Woodcock and the other songbirds and wildlife that have similar requirements. RGS works with landowners and government agencies to develop critical habitat utilizing scientific management practices. We do this with individualized attention with specific programs to help landowners and by working with local state and federal governments to develop land management assistance programs.
Our members are mainly grouse and woodcock hunters who support national scientific conservation and management efforts to ensure the future of the species.
Chapters & Events
RGS & AWS has a team of Regional Directors and Engagement Coordinators who help organize chapters. They sponsor shooting and hunting events to promote conservation and to raise funds to support our conservation programs. Members share a common interest and passion for these birds and other wildlife, while enjoying the lore, the dog work, the excitement and camaraderie of other enthusiasts. These chapters provide a local focus and kinship for the sport and help support land management projects that improve conditions for ruffed grouse, woodcock and the species that are associated with them. Chapters also sponsor banquets and other events that bring people with common interests together socially to share their adventures afield, honor their peers and to raise funds to support our conservation programs.
