Hunting can have many barriers to first-timers, especially women: where to go, how to shoot, what are the rules. The Gator Gobblers, a chapter of The National Wild Turkey Federation in Alachua County, were established in 2011 by Missie Schneider to address these barriers along with conserving wild turkeys and America’s hunting heritage. Over the past decade they’ve introduced hundreds of Floridians to hunting, including many women and youth. Starting in 2018, our Foundation has awarded four grants to the Gator Gobblers for youth and women’s hunting education programs and land conservation initiatives.
Their hunts are especially popular. In addition to a turkey dinner, participants gain a deep appreciation for hunting, wildlife management, and conservation efforts. They also impart tradition and hunter ethics along with firearm safety and shooting proficiency.
Our Foundation’s Grants Program Administrator Anita Forester participated in a hunt at the 3,000-acre Little Orange Creek Preserve. As a novice, Anita was taught gun safety and allowed to practice at the range. Later in the day, Anita and Missie spent hours in a tree stand. Right before sunset, a large boar appeared in a clearing about 85 yards away. Anita took a perfect shot; she kept some meat and donated the rest to the camp.
