Fort Collins chapter brings conservation mission to campus

Pheasants Forever (PF) is proud to introduce the Colorado State University Chapter, the first college chapter of Pheasants Forever in Colorado. Founded by six students at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, the group aims to recruit new members through hands-on habitat projects, outreach events and conservation education, while focusing on wildlife habitat improvement and fostering the traditions of upland hunting.

Unique among national conservation organizations, chapters of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever retain 100 percent decision-making control over the funds they raise. This grassroots model allows volunteers to directly support wildlife habitat projects, public access initiatives and conservation education programs throughout the upland bird range. PF Colorado Regional Representative Bob Hix will work closely with the new CSU chapter to support the organization's vision of sustaining abundant populations of wild pheasants, quail and other wildlife.

"I am so impressed with the leadership of these young men and women in the CSU PF Chapter; most of the key officers have already served their country in one of the branches of our great military institutions," Hix said. "These young men and women are organized, passionate and dedicated to other students and young people to get involved in the mission of Pheasants Forever. The CSU PF chapter wants to get involved with other PF chapters in CO and help at banquets and outreach events along with working with our CO PF Habitat Staff on future projects. It's a very exciting time in Colorado Pheasants Forever."

Forming this chapter highlights the importance of grassroots conservation at the community level. The CSU chapter will serve CSU students and the Fort Collins area, creating new opportunities to promote habitat conservation and strengthen the voice of upland birds. The group plans to hold monthly meetings on campus, host a pint night this spring, and organize a full banquet next fall that will be open to the public.

To learn more about the CSU Chapter of Pheasants Forever and upcoming events, contact chapter president Kellen McIntosh at kellenmcintoshx@gmail.com or chapter treasurer Dillon Niffen at dillonniffen@gmail.com. For more information about Pheasants Forever in Colorado, contact Bob Hix at BHix@pheasantsforever.org.