SCIF and Sables, in collaboration with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish (NMDGF), recently concluded their third consecutive Learn to Hunt Quail Camp, held from November 21 to 23, 2025. A group of 15 participants took part in a quail hunting event held on public land near Deming, New Mexico. The first-time quail hunters camped at the Rockhound State Park while learning about the importance of hunting, the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, honing their shooting skills, and pursuing both Gambel and Scaled quail while hunting with trained bird dogs.
Since September 2023, SCIF has partnered with NMDGF to implement this Recruitment, Reactivation, and Retention initiative as a part of SCIF’s Customized Education Programs. Since its inception, 90 first-time hunters have participated in this program. Although the program is designed primarily to introduce people to hunting, it also explores larger questions about motivations and expectations of potential hunters: what motivates a first-time hunter to try this experience, and what benefits do they gain besides simply learning how to hunt?
Each program utilizes learning to hunt as a means of introducing participants to additional key concepts, including the following:
· Safety: Participants have the chance to learn about safety in hunting and outdoor activities, including how to handle firearms properly in any situation. Although everyone has completed Hunter Education, some have never hunted before, while others have not hunted recently. Educating, promoting, and fostering safe firearm practices reinforce that prioritizing safety remains paramount for every hunter.
· Conservation: The importance of being a conservationist as a hunter and outdoor enthusiast is another key takeaway. Concepts taught about the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation and habitat/biology of the species being pursued all play a vital role in reinforcing the relationships between hunting and conservation.
· Community: In addition to valuable learning opportunities, participants can connect with others who share similar goals and experiences, reminding them that they are not alone in facing the challenges of becoming a hunter. Many participants have formed new friendships, often joining one another to hunt the same species they learned about together or exploring new opportunities.
· Skill Development: Participants are introduced to new or recently acquired competencies. Instruction at the camps includes proper shooting techniques, habitat analysis, sign interpretation, and safety practices in the field.
· Exploring Wild Places: Experiencing firsthand the beauty of wild landscapes and the animals and plants that live within them.
· Fostering a love for wildlife: The programs foster a genuine appreciation for wildlife. Their purpose is to encourage everyone to recognize that it’s not solely about the outcome, but rather to genuinely value both the experience and the wildlife they pursue.
These points underscore the primary motivations for new hunters to engage in hunting and demonstrate that the educational experience encompasses far more than the fundamental objective of harvesting game as a sustainable source of organic food. SCIF and Sables continue to uphold their commitment to providing education regarding the significance of being a hunter, which contributes substantially to conservation efforts.
Plans are underway to introduce more programs in New Mexico in early 2026, including a women’s duck camp and a turkey camp. For program updates and details, check the SCIF and NMDGF websites or social media. You may also contact Assistant Director of Education Todd Roggenkamp at 520-954-0664 or [email protected].
