Chapter volunteers seek to build a community of conservation-minded outdoors enthusiasts
Quail Forever (QF) is proud to announce the formation of the Cherry Mountain Chapter, based out of Bostic, North Carolina. This newest chapter represents an exciting expansion of grassroots conservation efforts in the western part of the state, bringing together passionate volunteers dedicated to improving quail habitat throughout the region.
Unique among national conservation organizations, chapters of Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever retain 100 percent decision-making control over fundraising dollars, allowing volunteers to support impactful wildlife habitat projects, public access initiatives, and conservation education programs throughout the upland bird range. Regional representative Kenny Barker will work closely with the new chapter to support the organization's vision to sustain abundant populations of quail and other wildlife.
The Cherry Mountain Chapter adds important coverage to western North Carolina, strategically positioned near state game lands such as the South Mountains. The chapter's location in a rural area with connectivity to public lands, agriculture, and remnants of quail populations makes it an ideal fit for habitat restoration efforts.
Colt Prince was motivated to establish the Cherry Mountain Chapter to bring dedicated conservation efforts to western North Carolina, demonstrating the power of local leadership in expanding habitat conservation initiatives.
"I wanted to bring a chapter to this area to build community with like-minded folks and bond over our strong western North Carolina outdoors traditions and love of bird dogs," Prince said. "There's nothing better than bringing people together who share a passion for conservation and making real connections with neighbors while making a difference for wildlife in our backyard."
"I'm excited to plant a chapter in western North Carolina," said Kenny Barker, QF regional representative for North Carolina. "The Cherry Mountain Chapter has the makings to be a conservation powerhouse. The area has modest wild bird populations and will get a major boost from having a chapter dedicated to habitat improvement. I can't wait to see how far this chapter goes!"
The Cherry Mountain Chapter is already planning activities to engage the local conservation community. They will be hosting upcoming events and member drives to introduce the organization to potential supporters and build their volunteer base for future habitat projects and conservation initiatives.
The chapter's volunteers are eager to make an immediate impact on quail habitat in western North Carolina, focusing on projects that will benefit not only quail populations but the entire upland ecosystem. Through hands-on habitat work, partnerships with local landowners, and community education efforts, the Cherry Mountain Chapter aims to restore and enhance critical wildlife habitat throughout its coverage area.
To learn more about the Cherry Mountain Chapter of Quail Forever, contact region representative Kenny Barker at kbarker@pheasantsforever.org or chapter president Colt Prince at 3treekennels@gmail.com.