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March 7, 2025
Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society Signs on as Official +ONE Partner
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS) & American Woodcock Society (AWS) have joined the +ONE® Movement, a national mentorship initiative led by NSSF®, The Firearm Industry Trade Association. As official +ONE Partners, RGS & AWS stand alongside a growing coalition of organizations working to ensure the future of hunting and the shooting sports by introducing new people to safe and responsible participation in these activities.
Research shows millions of people are interested in hunting but don’t know where to start. By fostering peer-to-peer mentorship and supporting organizations with structured mentorship programs, +ONE ensures newcomers have the guidance, skills and confidence needed to become lifelong hunters and conservationists. While individuals play a key role in mentoring others, +ONE Partners like RGS & AWS create large-scale opportunities for new hunters to learn, connect and participate.
For more than 60 years, RGS & AWS have united conservationists and hunters to improve forest habitat and promote active wildlife management for ruffed grouse, American woodcock and all forest species. With a deep commitment to forest stewardship, the organization supports habitat restoration, hunter recruitment and conservation-driven outreach efforts that ensure healthy forests and thriving wildlife populations. Through mentored hunts, shooting events and chapter-led conservation programs, RGS & AWS provide direct pathways for new hunters to get involved in upland bird hunting and conservation advocacy.
“All across the country, engaged volunteers operate local chapters to deliver the mission of the Ruffed Grouse Society and American Woodcock Society at the ground level. Growing our community – and introducing newcomers to the thrill of hunting grouse and woodcock – is crucial to advancing our mission of creating healthy forest wildlife habitat,” said Katie McKalip, Vice President, Communications and Marketing, Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society. “That’s why we’re grateful to NSSF for facilitating mentorship opportunities and why we’re proud to be part of the +ONE movement. Our members weave the fabric of our organization and enable us to secure the future of hunting and forest wildlife.”
“RGS & AWS provide welcoming, hands-on opportunities for newcomers to experience upland hunting and learn effective habitat conservation firsthand,” said Justin Morrissey, NSSF Director, Social Media and +ONE Liaison. “That’s what makes them a valuable partner in the effort to grow participation and pass down our hunting traditions. Their membership is made up of some of the most passionate hunters and conservationists – leaders who can step up and help spark interest in hunting among people who have never experienced it before.”
Through this partnership, RGS & AWS and NSSF will work together to expand mentorship initiatives, recruit new hunters and elevate conservation awareness. By supporting mentorship-based hunting programs and sustainable land management efforts, the +ONE Movement continues to strengthen the future of hunting and the shooting sports.
For more information on how to get involved, visit LetsGoHunting.org and LetsGoShooting.org.
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About NSSF
The National Shooting Sports Foundation is the trade association for the firearm industry. Its mission is to promote, protect and preserve hunting and the shooting sports. Formed in 1961, NSSF has a membership of thousands of manufacturers, distributors, firearm retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen’s organizations and publishers nationwide. For more information, visit nssf.org.
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NSSF Media contact:
Bill Brassard
203-426-1320 ext. 212
Categories: BP Item, Featured, Hunting, Industry News, Media, Press Releases, R3, Safety, Shooting, Top Stories
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