Bringing New Hunters into the Outdoors

Pennsylvania held its first Field to Fork rifle event at Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge in Stroudsburg, PA. Organized by the National Deer Association (NDA) and supported by the Pennsylvania Game Commission, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and NSSF, this event provided a unique opportunity for adults from non-hunting backgrounds to experience deer hunting in a mentored setting.

This event was held in support of the NSSF’s +One® Movement, which challenges hunters to become mentors, helping to secure the future of hunting and shooting sports. A Hunting Heritage Grant from the NSSF provided rifles for the participants. Additional support was provided by The Pennsylvania Game Commission and the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

A First-Time Rifle Hunt for New Hunters

For many participants, this was their first time hunting with a rifle. Pennsylvania has a rich tradition of deer hunting and rifle season holds a special place in the state’s outdoor culture. Expanding Field to Fork into the rifle season meant that more newcomers had the chance to learn, practice marksmanship and ultimately experience their first hunt in a controlled, educational environment.

The event took place at the Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge, a former agricultural farm and golf course now undergoing habitat restoration. With a focus on conservation and sustainable land management, this refuge serves as an ideal setting to demonstrate how responsible hunting supports wildlife populations and land stewardship.

More Than Just the Hunt

Field to Fork events go beyond simply teaching new hunters how to harvest a deer—they emphasize the ethics, values and skills necessary to become responsible members of the hunting community. Participants learn about safety, tracking, deer behavior and ethical shot placement. For some, this experience was a culmination of multiple mentored hunts, showcasing the persistence and dedication required to become a successful hunter.

Field to Fork Mentor Keith Doyle in the blind with new hunter Nina.

One participant, Nina, had attended several mentored hunts before but had yet to harvest a deer. Instead of giving up, she remained determined, continually learning from mentors and refining her skills. Her resilience reflects the true spirit of hunting—patience, perseverance and respect for the process.

New hunter Justin with Field to Fork mentor and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Rep Matt Falteich.

For another participant, Justin, the moment of taking his first deer was overwhelming. As soon as he made a successful shot, his mentor, Matt, stood up, cheered and embraced him—a moment of shared excitement that highlights the importance of mentorship in the hunting tradition. “That made it ten times better—sharing that with somebody,” Justin said

Mentorship and Conservation: A Lasting Impact

Many participants in the Field to Fork program expressed interest in giving back by mentoring others. The value of a supportive hunting community was a recurring theme, as new hunters spoke about the confidence gained through hands-on learning with experienced mentors.

Additionally, the event reinforced the connection between hunting and conservation. Venison is not only a nutritious and sustainable food source, but responsible hunting also plays a critical role in maintaining balanced deer populations and healthy ecosystems. By participating in ethical hunting practices, new hunters become active contributors to conservation efforts.

A Path Forward for Hunting’s Future

Programs like Field to Fork are vital in ensuring that hunting remains a strong and sustainable tradition. By removing barriers to entry—such as access to land, equipment and experienced mentors—these initiatives make hunting more accessible to a new generation.

For those in Pennsylvania looking to get involved in hunting, visit www.HuntDeerPA.com for more information on local programs and opportunities. To learn more about Field to Fork and how you can participate or support the program, visit National Deer Association’s Field to Fork page.

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or someone looking for a way to get started, mentoring or participating in a Field to Fork event is a powerful way to contribute to the future of hunting. These experiences create lifelong hunters, strengthen conservation efforts and ensure that hunting remains a valued part of our outdoor heritage.