SEASON OF LEGACYHONORING TRADITION, ANNOUNCING NEW LEADERSHIP AND DRIVING PROGRESS FORWARD.NORTHAMERICANGAMEBIRD.COM [email protected] OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NORTH AMERICAN GAMEBIRD ASSOCIATIONNOVEMBER 2025 • DECEMBER 2025Passing Down More Than a BusinessNAGA Membership Elects New Board MembersNAGA Prepares to Meet With CongressAnd More!NORTHAMERICANGAMEBIRD.COM [email protected]
NAGA NEWS • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • 3DEPARTMENTS04 Directory05 President’s Report06 NAGA Sponsors07 Executive Director’s Report09 Communications Director’s ReportFEATURES10 Passing Down More Than a Business14 NAGA Membership Elects New Board Members16 Locked & Loaded19 NAGA Prepares to Meet with Congress20 Mississippi Hunting Club Conference Earns High Marks from Attendees22 Ensuring the Future of Hunting Through PartnershipsARTICLES24 Industry Insights26 Nutrition Note27 Disease Report29 Classifieds, Calendar of Events and New Members39 AnnouncementsNAGA News is published every two months: January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October and November/December by the North American Gamebird Association.© 2025, NORTH AMERICAN GAMEBIRD ASSOCIATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.COVER PHOTO BY ARIAN STEVENSNOVEMBER/OCTOBER202522 2616 1910
4 • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • NAGA NEWSOFFICERSMike Martz - PennsylvaniaPresidentSarah Pope – Wisconsin 1st Vice PresidentMike Forsgren - Minnesota2nd Vice PresidentPeg Ballou – OhioImmediate Past President & Foundation ChairBrian Beavers - KansasTreasurerRob Sexton – OhioExecutive DirectorBritney Booth – AlabamaCommunications DirectorBOARD OF DIRECTORSBrian Beavers – Kansas (2026) Troy Laudenslager – Pennsylvania (2026) Bill MacFarlane – Wisconsin (2026) Carrie Wierzba – Wisconsin (2026)Sam Ballou – Ohio (2027)Dan Barngrover – Kansas (2027)Michele Bovey – Idaho (2027)Rick Kuhl, Jr. – New Jersey (2027)John Booth – Kansas (2028) Taylor Williams – Wisconsin (2028)Rick Kuhl – New Jersey (2028)Tim Zindl – Wisconsin (2028)STAFFEDITOR: Britney [email protected]/ADVERTISING: Rob [email protected] DESIGN:Jim WalshPRINTING HOUSE:The Herald, Inc.DIRECTORYCONTACTNorth American Gamebird Association 5195 Hampsted Vil. Ctr., PMB 242,New Albany, OH 43054-8331E-Mail: [email protected]: northamericangamebird.comNAGA MISSION STATEMENTThe North American Gamebird Association’s mission is to protect, promote and sustain a positive environment in which gamebird producers and hunting preserve operators can grow their businesses through monitoring and influencing of legislation, informing and educating our members on current industry trends and issues and promoting and sustaining our hunting heritage through increased public awareness.DUTCH COUNTRY PHEASANTS620-363-1970John Booth3890 Nebraska Rd. [email protected], KS 66755SalesLocationDennis KSPECIALIZING IN STARTED PHEASANTS, ADULT PHEASANTS, AND CHUKARDutch Country PheasantsGame Bird Sales
Idealism Versus RealismTHE IMPORTANCE OF TAKING A PRAGMATIC APPROACH TO THE CHALLENGES OF OUR INDUSTRYBY MICHAEL MARTZ, NAGA PRESIDENTI think few would argue that we live in a polarized country. As a college student, I had the privilege of interning for the Pennsylvania Republican caucus administrator in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. He was a first-cousin of my grandfather, a former chair of the House Game and Fisheries Committee, an avid-outdoorsmen and a member of our local deer camp. Although he stood for conservative values, I was always intrigued that, many times, some of his best friends that he would bring hunting with him to our establishment were Democrats. I remember asking him, “Merle, I know you guys think a lot differently on many issues, are you actually friends with these guys?” This man was as tough as nails, uncompromising on his core values and a U.S. Marine. A true plain-spoken patriot from the greatest generation of whom I sorely miss. There are many days where I remember his reply, “I can work with these guys. We don’t always vote the same way, but we’re friends. We like each other. We work together where we can. Mike, you’re idealistic and this will hurt you down the road if you don’t change your mindset. You have the idea that I can always get exactly what I want, but it doesn’t work like that in Harrisburg (Pennsylvania’s Capitol). If you remember one thing from me, it’s my advice to be a pragmatist. Be willing to work with people who don’t think the same way as you on certain issues. In the same token, don’t ever abandon your core principles because there are certain issues that can never be compromised.”I had no idea what idealist, realist or pragmatist meant at that time. However, as I watch our country’s political divide widen, I now understand his wisdom. Pragmatism is a practical approach to life that emphasizes the importance of results and consequences over political differences. I feel blessed that the leader of both the country and the state that I live in are pragmatists. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s been making every effort to cut the “red tape” for our agriculture and business communities with his motto to “get s--- done.” He doesn’t have time for bureaucrats who hold things up in government and has been great for agribusiness in Pennsylvania. Our President Donald J. Trump is also like-minded in getting permits approved in an expedited manner for business, getting law and order back into our cities and using a common-sense approach in government (this’s my opinion and doesn’t represent the opinion of all NAGA members). Our governor is a Democrat and our president is obviously a Republican. It’s a sad state that neither is given credit from the other end of the aisle. If President Trump’s motto was “get s--- done” the MAGA world would love it. If Shapiro cleaned up the cities, the Democrats would champion the issue. I’ll admit I like many aspects of what both men are doing and don’t understand why we live in a world where you can’t give credit where it’s due?Some may wonder what any of this has to do with NAGA. The answer is simple: whether you’re an associate member or a diamond sponsor, it’s wise for all of us to cultivate relationships with pragmatic politicians on each side of the aisle who are willing to get things done. One example of why this is important would be in the unlikely event that your farm contracts Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). We all must have a client/veterinarian relationship to get quality access to the proper medication for our bird flocks. Likewise, a solid constituent/government representative relationship can be the difference between having the proper state and federal agencies getting to your facility quickly in order to get things cleaned up, receive indemnity in an expedited fashion and provide the best opportunity to resume business legally in a timely manner.At the time of the publication of this article, NAGA may or may not have made our trip to Washington, D.C. The purpose of the trip is to ask Congress for disaster relief for the gamebird businesses that were affected by natural disasters as well as lobbying for a form of zero interest loans for hunt clubs in the event of a supply disruption due to HPAI. We plan to talk to politicians on both sides of the aisle. It’s important for our members to understand that, in many cases, one senator or representative can make the difference. For example, in 2017, Senator Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin helped our industry tremendously by successfully pushing legislation that allowed indemnity for gamebirds in the case of a Low-Pathogenic Avian Influenza (LPAI) outbreak. I would venture to guess that, like myself, the majority of folks in our industry are on the conservative end of the political spectrum. For those who don’t know, Tammy Baldwin is a Democrat. Simply writing someone off simply because they have a “D” or a “R” behind their name is the wrong approach. Thinking “I’m an only an associate member of NAGA and can’t help” is a natural human mindset, but is also incorrect. The attitude of “This will never affect me and I don’t need any help” is foolishness. Those who cultivate relationships and have the ability to humble themselves to ask for help for their respective business as well as the gamebird industry demonstrates true wisdom in my opinion. With Thanksgiving and the Christmas season right around the corner, I wish all of our members health, happiness and prosperity going into another new year. I pray for safety for your farm and hunt club workers as well as the health of your gamebird flocks. I wish you and your families a blessed Christmas and Happy New Year. God bless you all and may God bless America. PRESIDENT’S REPORTNAGA NEWS • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • 5
SPONSORS NAGA SPONSORSDIAMOND SPONSOR MEMBERSBeavers Game Farm LLCBlue Hill Hatchery & Gamebirds, Inc.Dutch Country PheasantsElkhorn Farms & Hatchery, Inc.Hudson Farm FoundationJim & Lauren MunceyKuhl CorporationMacFarlane Pheasants, Inc.Martz’s Game Farm FLPMilford Hills Hunt ClubMTM PheasantsOak Ridge Pheasant Ranch, Inc.SPONSOR MEMBERS3T Products LLCAddieville East FarmADM Animal Nutrition, Inc.Alwerdt’s Pheasant FarmBlaha Pheasant FarmBlue Hill Hatchery & Gamebirds, Inc.Book Cliff Game BirdsBoothill Game Birds LLCBroomsedge Rod & Gun, LLCColchis Bird Farm LLC Dawe’s LaboratoriesDiv - Ag Inc.Flying B RanchForsgren’s Pheasant Farm, Inc.Fuzzy’s Pheasant FarmGisi Pheasant Farms LLCHarper’s Game FarmHidden Valley Pheasantry & Warriors MarkIuka FeedsKrug’s Northwood Game Birds, Inc.Lake Elaine Game Farm, LLCLakeview GamebirdsLittle Canyon ShootingLongtail FarmsLynn ZindlMahantongo Game Farms LLCMetzer FarmsMurray McMurray HatcheryMuzzy Pheasant FarmNational Band & Tag Co.New Feathered FlyerOakwood Game Farm, Inc.Prairie Land Gamebirds, Inc.Ringneck Ranch, Inc.Romeo Bravo SoftwareRTS StrategiesRuff Land Performance LLCShady Knoll Gamebird Farm & Hunting PreserveShow-Me-Birds Hunting Resort, LLCSmokey’s Game BirdsSpring Farm, Inc.Star Labs/Forage Research, Inc.Straub’s Game FarmStromberg’s Chicks & Game BirdsTrace Pheasantry, Inc.Tuck Farms LLCVAL-COWhaleback Preserve Club/Whaleback Farm Inc.Wild Wings of Oneka.Wings North Hunting Club & Sporting ClaysYork Ag Products, Inc.Mahantongo Game Farms has been raising game birds since 1935. In2007, the owners of Mahantongo Game Farms formed 3T Productswith the mission of offering one-stop shopping for quality products atfair prices. The acquisition of BF Products in 2012 further expandedtheir product lines and services. Their goal is to utilize their vastexperience and combined volume to provide both proven and newproducts that will help enhance the game bird and other industries.• Superior Quality Pheasants & Chukar Partridge(Hungarian Partridge & Bobwhite Quail available upon request)• Affordable delivery of eggs anywhere in the world• Pro-Rated delivery charges for started & mature birds• NPIP Certified and A.I. MonitoredEGGS CHICKS STARTED & MATURE4 Million Eggs Produced Annually & Over 460,000 Raised on SiteDistributors of Game Bird and Poultry ProductsNETTING HEX-WIRE WELDEDWIRESHADECLOTHFEEDERS SPECS NESTS CRATES559 Flying Eagle RdDalmatia, PA 17017Phone: 800-982-9913Fax: 570-758-2095www.PAgamebirds.com1099 State Route 225Dalmatia, PA 17017Phone: 866-439-4660Fax: 866-538-1789www.3TProducts.commahantongo_3T ad_NAGA 2022_half pg.qxp_Layout 1 1/19/22 8:37 AM Page 1www.ADMAnimalNutrition.com.For more information, please call Troy Bjorge at 320-412-9957.Performance Proven Game Bird FeedsResearch proven • field proven • nutritional, technical, and general management supportLogos are © of ADM Alliance Nutrition, Inc., Quincy, IL 62305-3115 USAwww.admani.com • 866-666-7626For art questions: call Tracie Hall at 217-231-2239 or [email protected] 732 553 174 553 138 732 159Pantone Color Swatches Supporting Color Pallette Typeface/FontCondiment
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORTUnityA PRECIOUS AND FRAGILE, BUT ESSENTIAL, COMMODITYBY ROB SEXTON, NAGA EXECUTIVE DIRECTORIf you follow the commodity world, you know that there are certain valuable elements and materials that are exceedingly rare and, as a result, command a high price. Items like rare earth metals come to mind. In the realm of human interaction, there are several items that fall into a similar category. Reputations are one example. Renowned investor Warren Buffet is fond of repeating this old saying about trust and reputations: “It takes 20 years to build a reputation, and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you’ll do things differently.”He’s 100% right on this, of course. Over time, we build trust with one another. But one breach of that trust injects doubt into the relationship, proving Buffet’s point that reputations are fragile and precious. Another precious, but fragile, commodity is unity. The ability of people working together in harmony is invaluable – whether in a family, on a team, within a company or within an organization. One of the things I’ve most appreciated about the NAGA board of directors is the extraordinary unity that’s existed for my entire 11 years with the organization. Like any group of people, we’ve had disagreements between us, but one laudable aspect of our board members is the care each of them has exercised to protect the unity of purpose within the organization’s leadership. Like any relationship that largely functions in harmony, it requires all involved to submit at least a piece of their own self interest for the greater good. Members of the NAGA board routinely do that for the greater good of the gamebird industry, often revealing their own trade secrets to help colleagues who are also competitors. Over the last year, NAGA has expanded this culture to pursue closer relationships with state and regional gamebird organizations. In January, NAGA announced a pilot program with our first affiliate, the Pennsylvania Game Breeders Association. The affiliation encourages membership in both organizations, providing benefits to members of the two. However, the real value goes beyond membership benefits. The real intent of NAGA’s affiliate program is to build a larger and stronger network of gamebird businesses that are capable of speaking in one unified voice. This unified voice is essential when facing challenges, such as legislative or regulatory changes needed in Washington, D.C., or in any state capital. Sometimes, a key issue is decided by just a handful of congressmen. The key to getting these decision makers on our side is to show them people in their own districts who are in the gamebird business. If we can do that, our chances of success are much higher. If we can’t, then our chances depend on a congressman or woman caring about our issue based only on its merits. With so many issues being considered every day in Washington, being able to point to an actual voting constituent can be the difference maker. Because of this, NAGA has embarked on a project to unify the gamebird industry, seeking partnerships with the state and regional affiliates. Just as this issue of NAGA News was being finalized, the NAGA board of directors voted to approve our second formal affiliate partner, the Southeastern Game Bird Breeders & Hunting Preserve Association (SGBBHPA). Functioning similar to the Pennsylvania affiliate relationship, members of both organizations will have the opportunity to join the other – and SGBBHPA will publish updates on their work four times per year. Our hope is to demonstrate the advantages of coordinating to the benefit of both organizations, but, more importantly, the benefit of the increasing strength of our network that we all rely on for our very existence. A unified network of gamebird businesses will be our primary line of defense going forward. One place where our unity is often on display is at our annual meetings. NAGA holds two events per year: the Annual Convention, which will take place February 2-4, 2026 at the Hyatt House in Historic Charleton, South Carolina, and the NAGA Hunting Club Conference, which takes place each July. We have exciting news on both fronts. The NAGA board of directors has selected the Embassy Suite Old Market located in downtown Omaha, Nebraska, for the site of the 2026 Hunting Club Conference, July 20-22. The hotel is just minutes from the airport and located in the heart of Omaha’s tourist attraction of shops and restaurants. The board has also selected the Plaza San Antonio Hotel to host the 2027 NAGA Annual Convention, February 1-3. The hotel is less than a 10-minute walk from the famous Riverwalk, and just a few minutes more to the historic Alamo. These two events are the gathering place where relationships are built and cultivated, where old friends connect and strategic alliances are launched to protect and advance the gamebird industry. Registration’s now open on the NAGA website for Charleston. With a great city, a hotel in a great location and a great program, the NAGA Convention is a must attend. Last, this issue of NAGA News includes the results from our election to the NAGA board of directors. It’s been my privilege to work with these volunteers who’ve steered our industry so well this last decade and beyond. We appreciate the service of those whose terms will come to an end in Charleston, and we welcome those who will be joining the board at that time. On behalf of the NAGA staff, we wish you all the best hunting and holiday seasons. NAGA NEWS • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • 7Mature flight conditioned chukarAvailable year roundCall for pricing:Wesley [email protected], PANew Holland, PANEW LOCATIONWARRENSBURG, MO
TK DEPT8 • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • NAGA NEWS
Registration Is Open for the 2026 NAGA Convention in Charleston, South Carolina!JOIN US FEBRUARY 2-4, 2026 AT THE HYATT PLACE/HYATT HOUSEBY BRITNEY BOOTH, NAGA COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTORGet ready for southern charm, coastal views and unbeatable networking opportunities as NAGA heads to historic Charleston, South Carolina, for its 2026 Convention. This year’s gathering promises more education, innovation and connection than ever before.Set for Feb. 2–4, 2026, at the stunning Hyatt Place/Hyatt House Charleston in the Historic District, this must-attend event brings together gamebird producers, hunting preserve operators, suppliers and industry leaders from across North America for three days of networking, education and fun.WHAT TO EXPECT:• Expert-led seminars on key topics impacting your business• A vendor trade show with the latest products and services• Live auctions, raffles and evening receptions• The chance to connect with fellow professionals who understand your worldSESSION TOPICS: This year’s lineup covers every corner of the gamebird industry. Producers and preserve owners will benefit from discussions on biosecurity and profitability, while marketers can learn how to stand out in a competitive marketplace. Cutting-edge technology takes center stage with two sessions on artificial intelligence, exploring how AI is revolutionizing everything from bird counting to business automation. Agenda topics will include:• Marketing: How to Differentiate Yourself from Your Competition with Topflight Customer Care• The Other AI: How Artificial Intelligence Can Help Gamebird Businesses• AI Part 2: Bird Counting Using Artificial Intelligence• Evaluating the Value of Solar for Your Farm• Chef Demonstration and Recipe Book• Effective Producer/Preserve Communication to Maintain Good Biosecurity• Best Practices: Effective Strategies for Raising Multiple Species of Gamebirds• Brooder Barn Tactics: HVAC Options, Reducing Mortality and Preparing Your Birds for the Outdoors• Protecting Your ASSets! How Much Is Too Much Insurance? Organizing and• Understanding Insurance Costs and Coverages• Succession Planning: Growing the Engagement of Children to Ensure Their Ownership Tomorrow• Profitability Audit: Making Sure You’re Making Money• Rethinking Feed Formula Strategies for Breeders and Indoors vs. Outdoors• Cyber Wars: Protecting Your Data and Computer SystemsBeyond the seminars, the NAGA Convention is where lifelong partnerships begin. Whether you’re swapping stories over breakfast or striking a deal on the trade show floor, you’ll be surrounded by peers who share your passion.SECURE YOUR SPOT TODAY:Don’t miss your chance to be part of the only national event dedicated solely to the gamebird industry. Spaces fill quickly, so reserve your spot and your room at the Hyatt Place/Hyatt House Charleston today. Let’s make the 2026 NAGA Convention the most impactful gathering yet.Register now by scanning the QR code with your phone camera or visit NorthAmericanGamebird.com! COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR’S REPORTThe ONLY Gamebird Inventory Managment App!KEEP YOUR FLOCK IN YOUR POCKET WITHHatchTracker.com888.891.3231TIRED of Files & Excel Sheets?
In family businesses, succession is more than a financial handoff — it’s a question of survival. When families avoid hard conversations about the future, the cost often shows up in unexpected ways: fractured relationships, strained finances and even the loss of land that’s been in the family for generations. In the gamebird world, the stakes are even higher. Passing down a business doesn’t just mean transferring assets; it means ensuring stewardship of the land, wildlife and conservation practices that define our way of life. Without a clear plan, what began as a legacy can quickly unravel, leaving behind more than financial gaps.The good news is that family businesses don’t have to fall into this trap. With intentional planning, honest conversations and the right structures in place, succession can be a season of renewal — not rupture. Here are a few practical strategies families can use to navigate the transition well.1. START THE CONVERSATION EARLYOne of the biggest mistakes families make is waiting until a crisis forces the discussion. By that point, emotions are high and options are limited. Instead, treat succession as an ongoing dialogue rather than a one-time decision. Begin asking questions now:• What role does each family member want in the business, if any?• What values and traditions do we want to preserve?• What new opportunities should the next generation be free to pursue?These conversations may feel uncomfortable, but avoidance rarely protects family harmony — it usually strains it. Starting early creates space for thoughtful choices instead of reactive ones.2. SEPARATE OWNERSHIP FROM LEADERSHIPToo often, families assume that because children inherit ownership, they must also inherit leadership. But running a gamebird operation requires skills far beyond ownership — finance, people management, regulatory navigation, conservation expertise and customer relationships. The best leaders are those who are prepared, not just those who are available.Practical step: Identify who in the family is genuinely interested and capable of leading day-to-day operations. For others, explore how they might remain engaged through ownership, board involvement or advocacy roles. This distinction reduces pressure, clarifies responsibilities and sets the next leader up for success.10 • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • NAGA NEWSARABELLA CRUIKSHANK PASSING DOWN MORE THAN A BUSINESSSUCCESSION IN FAMILY-OWNED GAMEBIRD OPERATIONSBY MARY IVON PASTOREK, MANAGER, CLIENT EXPERIENCE, HORNE
3. BUILD A LEADERSHIP BENCH, NOT JUST A SUCCESSORSuccession shouldn’t hinge on a single person. A strong transition develops a “bench” of leaders — family and non-family alike — who can carry the mission forward.Practical step: Invest in leadership development for key employees and next-generation family members. Whether it’s sending them to an industry conference, providing coaching or letting them lead a project, these small steps create confidence and competence. A deep “bench” also reassures lenders, customers and employees that the business isn’t overly dependent on one individual.4. PUT IT IN WRITINGVerbal agreements can feel sufficient in close families, but memory fades and interpretations differ. Formalizing succession plans provides clarity and prevents conflict down the road.Practical step: Work with trusted advisors to create documents, such as:• A buy-sell agreement to guide ownership transfer.• A family constitution or values statement to preserve culture.• A clear will or trust to avoid disputes.Writing it down isn’t about distrust — it’s about ensuring TOP: JOHN COBB; BOTTOM: MAX VAN DEN OETELAAR
clarity for the people and the land you love.5. PRESERVE BOTH THE BUSINESS AND THE BONDSAt its core, succession is both a financial and relational process. A thriving business is meaningless if the family’s fractured in the process. That means paying attention to the “people side” of the transition as much as the technical side.Practical step: Schedule intentional family meetings that are separate from business meetings. Use these times to check in relationally — celebrate wins, acknowledge tensions and remind 12 • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • NAGA NEWS TOP: DAVID GOLDMAN; BOTTOM: JOSH SORENSON
each other of what you’re working toward. Consider inviting a neutral facilitator to guide difficult conversations. Protecting the bond protects the business.6. REFRAME SUCCESSION AS GROWTH, NOT AN EXITFinally, shift the narrative. Succession isn’t about the senior generation stepping aside — it’s about positioning the next generation and the business for growth. Retiring leaders still play a vital role as mentors, advisors and storytellers of the family legacy.Practical step: Create clear “next season” roles for the outgoing generation. This allows them to stay engaged meaningfully without undermining the authority of new leaders. It also affirms their ongoing importance in shaping the future.CLOSING THOUGHTSFor families in the gamebird industry, succession isn’t optional — it’s inevitable. The question is whether it will happen by design or by default. A well-designed transition plan protects more than financial assets; it preserves the stories, values and way of life that make our businesses unique.The land you’ve cultivated, the birds you’ve raised and the traditions you’ve built are too important to leave to chance. Start the conversations now. Put it in writing. Invest in the next generation. In doing so, you won’t just hand down a business — you’ll hand down a legacy that endures. NAGA NEWS • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • 13 CHRIS ROBERT Contact Grant Douglass 22714 OH-104tresslergamepreserve.com Chillicothe, OH 45601 PHEASANT | CHUKAR | QUAIL CHICKS | STARTED | MATURE Luke Ingalls | 515.320.4476 | Titonka, Iowa IInnggaallllss PPhheeaassaannttss && FFoowwll Delivery AvailableHunt Club GamebirdBreeders System• Track Club Memberships• Track members bird totalsshot/released• Email customer statements/invoices• Go Paperless - digital tracking ofcustomer release forms etc.• Complete invoice history lookupand/or print older invoices• Full A/R of who owes you money• Invoice/Statement Printing1/8 Page (Horizontal)3.8125 x 2.375Software • Hardware • Service • Supportwww.hunt.ksystemsinc.com...Plus Many MoreFeatures800-221-0204717-795-7711KSI
NAGA MEMBERSHIP ELECTS NEW BOARD MEMBERSThe North American Gamebird Association is governed by an all-volunteer, 12-member board of directors elected by members of the association. Four seats on the board are up for election each year unless there are unexpected vacancies. Every two years, the board selects a second vice president of the association, who along with the first vice president and president make up the officers of the organization. Each serves a two-year term before moving up to the next position.“Our process ensures NAGA members remain in control of their trade association each year,” said NAGA President Mike Martz. “I greatly appreciate the time invested by our existing board members and the willingness of our new candidates to serve.”Six candidates were on the 2025 ballot for four open slots. The newly elected board members will take office Monday, February 2, 2026, at the NAGA Convention in Charleston, South Carolina, and serve a threeyear term ending in February 2029. The results were razor-thin and came down to just a handful of votes.NAGA CONGRATUL ATES THE FOLLOWING FOUR CANDIDATES:BRIAN BEAVERSManaging partner of Beavers Game Farm in Pierceville, KansasBrian serves as treasurer of NAGA and the North American Gamebird Foundation. He’s a past president of the organization and former chairman of NAGF and has served on the NAGA board of directors for many years. Brian is active on many fronts within the industry, including the Convention Committee, Executive Committee, Exhibits Committee and Hunting Club Conference Committee. He’s also served as the Kansas delegate for the National Poultry Improvement Plan.Beavers Game Farm is a Diamond Sponsor of NAGA.TROY LAUDENSLAGEROwner of Mahantongo Game Farms and 3T Products in Dalmatia, PennsylvaniaTroy was elected to the NAGA board in 2022 and has previously served as well. He’s very active on the NAGA Health Committee and often serves as an ambassador and liaison between the industry and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). He’s been instrumental in convincing APHIS to adopt fair market values for gamebirds and remains active in updating these values each year. Troy was the primary author of Subpart J of the NPIP, reserved for the gamebird industry, and serves as a Pennsylvania delegate for the National Poultry Improvement Plan.Mahantongo Game Farms and 3T Products are sponsor members of NAGA.TONY SMITHOwner of MTM Pheasants in Pender, NebraskaTony will be serving his first term on the NAGA board of directors. He’s a first-generation gamebird producer, raising pheasants, chukar and Hungarian partridge on farms in Nebraska and South Dakota. Tony serves on the NAGA Health Committee, Convention Committee and Publications Committee. He’s especially interested in helping NAGA network and grow across the country.MTM Pheasants is a Diamond Sponsor of NAGA.14 • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • NAGA NEWSBRIAN BEAVERS TROY LAUDENSLAGER
JOHN TUCKOwner of Tuck Farms in Blountsville, AlabamaJohn will be serving his first term on the NAGA board of directors. He’s already become active in the effort to gain eligibility for the Livestock Indemnity Program for gamebird businesses that suffer damages from natural disasters. John also serves on the Congressional Outreach Committee, which connects the gamebird industry to members of Congress to address key issues facing the industry. He’s particularly interested in growing NAGA membership.Tuck Farms is a Sponsor Member of NAGA.NAGA LEADERSHIP EXPRESSES APPRECIATION FOR BOARD SERVICENAGA also expresses its appreciation to Carrie Wierzba of Lake Elaine Gamebirds in Amherst Junction, Wisconsin. Carrie will complete her term on the NAGA board of directors at the convention in Charleston. She and her husband, Roy, are frequent attendees of the Convention. Lake Elaine is a Sponsor Member of NAGA.NAGA also extends its gratitude to Bill MacFarlane of MacFarlane Pheasants in Janesville, Wisconsin. Bill will be wrapping up a decades-long term of service that includes three terms as NAGA president, service on the Executive Committee and a longtime chairmanship of the important Health Committee, which coordinates the organization’s policies involving disease protocols. MacFarlane Pheasants is a Diamond Sponsor of NAGA.“It’s hard to imagine moving forward on this board without these dedicated people who have served our industry so well,” Martz said. “I thank both Bill and Carrie for their work and look forward to continued dialogue with them as time moves forward. And I offer our welcome to our new members, a great group of people who cherish this business in which we’ve all grown up and prospered.” TONY SMITHJOHN TUCK815 EARL STREETPENDER, NE [email protected] PARTRIDGECHUKAR PARTRIDGECHINESE RINGNECK PHEASANTSKANSAS RINGNECK PHEASANTSMELANISTIC MUTANT PHEASANTSOFFICE: (402) 385-864724 HOUR: (888) 573-8004CENTRALLY LOCATED IN THE U.S. WITH 2 LOCATIONS!
LOCKED & LOADEDTURNING YOUR HUNT CLUB OR PRESERVE INTO A PROFITABLE PRO SHOP HUBBY HANK YACEK, CEO OF POINT OF IMPACT GROUP LLCFor many hunters, a club or preserve is more than a place to hunt game. It’s a community, a tradition and a retreat where skills are honed and memories are made. Yet, for owners and managers, there’s a lingering challenge: how do you make the club not just a passion project, but also a sustainable and profitable business?The answer might be sitting right at your doorstep – the pro shop. When done right, a pro shop is more than a corner store with shells and snacks. It can become a central hub for solving members’ problems, enhancing their experience and adding significant revenue to the club’s bottom line.With more than 30 years in the firearms and outdoor retail industry, I’ve seen the difference firsthand. From running Classic Arms and Archery to consulting for hundreds of ranges and retail shops nationwide through Point of Impact Group LLC, I’ve learned that the key isn’t selling stuff – it’s solving problems. And, when you solve problems, you create loyalty, increase member value and build long-term profitability.BEYOND SELLING: THE REAL MISSION OF THE PRO SHOPThe single most important shift in mindset is this: a pro shop’s job isn’t to sell – it’s to solve.Hunters and shooters don’t just walk into a club needing a product; they arrive with problems to be solved. Maybe they need gear to stay warm on a damp morning. Maybe they’ve forgotten shells. Maybe they’re unsure how to improve their shooting skills. Or maybe they want to take a memento home from the experience.A successful pro shop identifies those needs and positions itself as the solution. To do that, we must think about four essential pillars of the hunting and shooting lifestyle:1 Appropriate equipment2 Developed skillsets3 Proper expectations4 Closing the loop on the experienceSTOCKING THE RIGHT EQUIPMENTAt the foundation of every hunt is gear. Without the right equipment, hunters won’t just be unprepared – they’ll have a poor experience that reflects on the club.A well-designed pro shop ensures members have immediate access to essentials:• Ammunition: the most commonly forgotten or under-packed item.• Firearms: either rentals for newcomers or retail options for purchase.• Clothing and items for weather shifts: rain jackets, gloves and insulated gear.• Accessories: shell bags, eyewear, hearing protection and cleaning products.• Dog supplies: training gear, food and accessories for canine partners.Each product category represents more than a transaction; it’s insurance that your member’s day in the field goes smoothly.BUILDING SKILLSETSHunting is equal parts preparation and performance. Pro shops should expand their role beyond gear into skill development.That could mean:• Training classes: introducing beginners to safe firearm handling or advanced courses for seasoned members.• Practice fields: clay target ranges or warm-up stations.16 • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • NAGA NEWS ISTOCK: ALBERT SHAKIROV
• One-on-one coaching: personalized instruction to sharpen accuracy.Not only does this drive additional revenue, it strengthens the bond between members and the club. When a hunter improves because of your staff’s guidance, they’ll remember it – and keep coming back.SETTING PROPER EXPECTATIONSOne of the most overlooked parts of customer satisfaction is alignment. If expectations don’t match reality, even a good day afield can feel disappointing.Your pro shop can help shape those expectations by providing transparent, helpful resources:• Sell sheets that clearly outline what’s included in a package.• YouTube videos showcasing the experience beforehand.• Website descriptions that tell the full story of what members should anticipate.The goal isn’t to “hide” or oversell. It’s to make sure guests are informed and prepared. When they know what’s coming, they’ll enjoy it more and they’ll trust your brand.CLOSING THE LOOP: EXTENDING THE EXPERIENCEFor hunters, the memories don’t stop when the field is quiet. They extend into the meals, the mounts and the photos that commemorate the day. Pro shops that embrace this concept offer services and products that “close the loop” on the hunting experience:• Photography and videography services: capture hunts professionally.• Taxidermy partnerships: streamline the process for trophies.• Cooking sessions and processing gear: from recipes to grinders, help members enjoy the harvest.• Locally raised food products: curated items that connect the hunt to the local community.By extending the lifecycle of a hunt, your pro shop ensures members don’t just remember the experience, but that they relive it every time they cook a meal, hang a mount or flip through a photo album.PRACTICAL STEPS TO BUILD A PROFITABLE PRO SHOPTurning concept into reality doesn’t require massive resources. In fact, a club or preserve can start small and scale up. Here’s how:1 Choose your space wisely.You don’t need a sprawling retail floor. A well-organized 500-square-foot space can provide ample opportunity to serve members.2 Set a realistic budget.Start with inventory worth about $150 per square foot (at cost). For a 500-squarefoot shop, that’s a $75,000 investment. From there, grow based on demand.3 Define your audience.Every club has a distinct membership profile. Build assortments around what your hunters actually need: upland gear for pheasant clubs, waterfowl gear for duck camps or range accessories for shooting facilities.4 Build vendor relationships. Work with suppliers who understand your business model and can deliver consistent, reliable product lines. Favor vendors who solve problems – not just fill shelves.5 Stick to the plan. Don’t fall into the trap of overbuying or chasing trends. A disciplined approach will prevent waste and ensure steady profits.PROFIT IS NOT A DIRTY WORDOne common mistake clubs make is underselling themselves. They treat the pro shop like a “service” rather than a revenue generator. But profit doesn’t undermine the member experience – it enhances it.A thriving pro shop means better services, more events and reinvestment into the club. It keeps membership fees manageable while improving the overall quality of the club experience. Remember: profit fuels sustainability.A LIFESTYLE, NOT JUST A SHOPAt its core, a successful pro shop sells more than just products. It sells a lifestyle.When hunters buy branded hoodies, take home a photo package or learn new shooting skills, they’re deepening their relationship with the club. The pro shop becomes a hub of identity and community – not just a cash register.That sense of belonging translates into loyalty. Loyal members stay longer, spend more and bring friends. In business terms, you’re increasing lifetime customer value.FINAL TAKEAWAYRunning a hunt club or preserve isn’t easy. It requires balancing tradition with innovation and member satisfaction with financial sustainability. However, the pro shop is a rare opportunity where all of these come together.By focusing on solving problems, enhancing experiences and closing the loop, you transform your shop into more than a side amenity. It becomes a cornerstone of your club’s success.In the end, hunters don’t just want a place to shoot or a field to hunt. They want an experience that begins when they walk in the door and extends far beyond the day’s hunt. With the right strategy, your pro shop can deliver that and keep your club locked, loaded and thriving for years to come.NAGA NEWS • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • 17 ISTOCK: SOLID MAKS
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NAGA PREPARES TO MEET WITH CONGRESSThe gamebird industry is facing several significant challenges that require involvement from our elected officials in Washington, D.C. To meet these challenges, NAGA President Mike Martz appointed a committee to develop and implement a campaign to put these challenges in front of key members of Congress, and to seek their help in addressing each of them. Members of the committee include Sam Ballou (Ohio), Brian Beavers (Kansas), Chris DeWitt (North Carolina), Mike Forsgren (Minnesota), Troy Laudenslager (Pennsylvania), Lloyd Marks (Wisconsin), Mike Martz (Pennsylvania), Sarah Pope (Wisconsin), Rob Sexton (Ohio), John Tuck (Alabama) and Tim Zindl (Wisconsin). The members of the committee were largely chosen because key members of Congress are from their states. In this case, congressmen and women who are members of the U.S. House and U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee and the Agriculture Appropriations Sub-Committee are the most important elected officials NAGA members need to recruit. COMMITTEE MEMBERS AND OTHER NAGA MEMBERS WILL BE REACHING OUT TO THEIR MEMBERS OF CONGRESS TO DISCUSS THREE ISSUES: 1. Although the gamebird industry has an improving relationship with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS), there are instances where the government refuses to acknowledge the unique nature of the gamebird business compared to other poultry or where the government treats gamebird farms as if they aren’t legitimate poultry businesses even though federal statutes classify gamebirds as poultry in many areas. However, when it comes to damages from natural disasters, such as hurricanes, tornados, wildfires and floods, the USDA has enacted regulations making gamebird businesses ineligible for assistance that other livestock receives under the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP). While other livestock farms receive assistance when they’re damaged by disasters, gamebird businesses are left out in the cold. There are two possible solutions. Federal law allows the secretary of agriculture to determine that gamebirds are eligible poultry, which would immediately solve the problem, or Congress can clarify in law that gamebirds are eligible for the LIP program. This is a more permanent solution. 2. Unlike other poultry industries, the gamebird business operates on a yearly cycle in which mature birds must be available during hunting season. Because of this, the farms affected by diseases such as avian influenza aren’t able to resume growing and immediately market their birds. Their hatching cycle must line up with the following hunting season. This makes gamebird breeder birds much more valuable as the hatching season approaches. Despite this key difference, USDA-APHIS insists on implementing a one-size-fits-all model when it comes to indemnity values that severely undervalues breeder gamebirds, especially as the hatching season approaches. The result is a vulnerability that could wipe out a farm if it becomes infected with a disease just before or during high production laying and hatching time periods. There are viable solutions. NAGA annually surveys gamebird businesses to develop up to date bird values. The organization’s created several models that create fair market value for breeder birds. USDA-APHIS could accept one of these models or Congress could direct the agency to do so. 3. The supply chain for the gamebird business begins with the hatchery through the grower phase. From there, to the hunt club following by the table. Yet, because of the aforementioned annual business cycle that must coincide with annual hunting seasons, hunting operations that lose their contracted birds when their supplier contracts disease are left unprotected and, in many cases, could be put out of business. While producers are eligible for indemnity, hunting preserves aren’t. The gamebird industry’s searching for a solution that would ensure their survival. One solution is for Congress or USDA-APHIS to extend a 0% or 1% loan program to affected farms that can demonstrate their inability to secure birds due to a disease outbreak. This solution would ensure their survival and still make them the responsible party. NAGA is looking for congressional partners to explore this or alternative solutions that would ensure the survival of the industry in the event of the next disease outbreak. THE IMPACT OF THE GAMEBIRD INDUSTRYNew research shows that the gamebird industry has a $2.2 billion impact on the U.S. economy each year, generating more than $256 million in tax revenue and supporting nearly 10,000 jobs that paid $614 million in salaries and wages. Their economic clout supports local rural economies and are almost entirely family farms – many of which are multigenerational. The gamebird industry generates tourism with one out of three hunters coming from out-ofstate. Equally important, the gamebird industry ensures the future of hunting as one out of three customers on a gamebird farm are either novices or first-time hunters.“Our plan is to explain the challenges we’re facing in front of our own members of Congress,” explained NAGA President Mike Martz. “When they see the value of our industry, especially to rural communities, we’ll ask them to join with us to find workable solutions. Our plan includes regular communications with congressional offices, and a trip to D.C. in the very near future.” ISTOCK: MIKHAIL MAKAROVNAGA NEWS • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • 19
MISSISSIPPI HUNTING CLUB CONFERENCE EARNS HIGH MARKS FROM ATTENDEESSeeking feedback to ensure the quality of the annual summer conference designed for hunting preserves, NAGA distributed a survey to attendees of the 2025 Hunting Club Conference, and the event received both high praise and valuable guidance for the future. The 4th edition of the conference, sponsored by NSSF – The Firearm Industry Trade Association, was held July 21-23 at the Horseshoe Hotel and Casino in Tunica, Mississippi, just outside of Memphis, Tennessee. The event set records with sponsor support, general attendee registration, first time attendee registration, raffle proceeds and auction funds raised. However, vendor numbers were down below both the 2023 event in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and the 2022 conference in Manhattan, Kansas. “We’re so pleased with the event,” said Conference Chairman Dan Barngrover. “We’re grateful to our sponsors and exhibitors who made it possible. Our planning committee has already begun work on the 2026 conference, and we’ll place extra emphasis on having a great vendor experience. Our exhibitors are a vital part of the show.” The post event survey covered all areas of the Hunting Club Conference beginning with learning how attendees heard about the event, the quality of the agenda, future topics to be covered, the cost model of the conference, the timing and format of the event and evaluations of the hotel and food served. Exactly half (66 responses) of attendees filled out the survey, which was also a record number. When it comes to recruiting people to attend, 25% of respondents reported receiving information on the event from NAGA publications such as NAGA News, the website, email blasts and social media. However, an even higher percentage of attendees were invited by other NAGA members, demonstrating once again how powerful it is when NAGA members invite their colleagues and friends in the industry. Because first impressions matter, it was good that 27% of survey respondents were first-time attendees. When evaluating the overall quality of the agenda and the conference, it was a unanimous response when asked about the quality of the agenda and whether or not they would attend in the future. However, NAGA is interested in feedback that goes deeper than those general questions. Attendees were asked to rate each presentation/speaker on a scale of one to five, with five being a great presentation and one being a presentation that wasn’t very interesting. With 17 presentations over the three-day event, 12 scored a rating of four and above, meaning they scored with a majority of fours and fives. And 16 of 17 presentations were rated as at least useful. When it came to specific evaluations, it was clear that attendees valued having a say in the future of the conference. Each year, the Hunting Club Conference has closed with a facilitated session where attendees provide input to guide planning for the following year and beyond. This buy-in has been essential to the conference because it ensures the event reflects the desires of attendees. The facilitated session scored a 4.7 out of five. For the first time, the Hunting Club Conference featured a political presentation where attendees were given a crash course on threats to the future of the industry and how best to plan to meet those challenges. The presentation concluded with a lively question and answer period and scored an average rating of 4.53. Right on its heels, attendees scored a presentation on essential bird health remedies by NAGA President Mike Martz at a 4.52. The high marks were greatly pleasing to Barngrover. “No conference program is ever perfect,” he said. “But the high satisfaction scores indicate the committee fulfilled its mission to provide a program based on what our attendees value most.”Responders provided ideas for future conferences that ranged from hunter and 20 • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • NAGA NEWS
hunting dog first aid to dog handling and training, social media/marketing training, sporting clay course set ups and much more. In all, 48 topics were suggested, giving the planning committee a great start toward the 2026 conference. From its initial design, the Hunting Club Conference was designed to be a lowcost event, allowing clubs to send more than one person, ensuring affordability for preserves of all sizes. This has often meant the conference is located in less expensive locales. This is a different approach than the Annual NAGA Convention, which takes place in February each year and often held in popular and more expensive getaway locations. Feedback from the survey indicates that attendees prefer the current model with 94% wishing to keep the affordability focus. The format of the conference likewise received heavy support. When asked about the midday start time, which allows people to arrive on the same day, 95% of respondents indicated they preferred this schedule with 98% preferring the Wednesday midday closing time of the conference, allowing people to depart on the same day the conference concludes. An equal 98% like the longer breaks and meals that allow attendees, sponsors and vendors to network and visit. When it came to future locations, however, responses varied greatly with 40 different suggestions. Even when combining similar responses, the group didn’t provide a definitive preference with people preferring the Southeast, Texas, the northern Midwest and middle America itself, ranging from Kansas to Pennsylvania. One thing was clear: there are lots of options for NAGA to consider based upon this feedback. Throughout the responses, attendees were provided opportunities for anecdotal comments that provide more in-depth information. One consistent comment was that the conference was well run with great appreciation for it running on time throughout. It’s a great reminder for future conferences, and Barngrover credited NAGA First Vice President Sarah Pope who designed the agenda and NAGA staff for this positive feedback. “It’s essential that any organization listen to their customers if they want to survive,” he remarked. “This survey lets us know we’ve been on the right track and provides us with a roadmap for how to stay on it going forward. We really appreciate those who took the time to fill it out. It makes sure that the NAGA Hunting Club Conference continues to be designed by hunting clubs for hunting clubs.”NAGA NEWS • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • 21NAGA BOARD APPROVES 2026 HUNTING CLUB CONFERENCE HOTELFollowing the recommendation of the NAGA Hunting Club Conference Committee, the NAGA Board of Directors has selected the Embassy Suites By Hilton – Omaha Downtown Old Market in Omaha, Nebraska, as the site for the 5th Annual NAGA Hunting Club Conference, July 20-22, 2026. The hotel is located in the heart of downtown Omaha, at 555 S. 10th Street, in the historic Old Market, which features shopping and restaurants. Embassy Suite hotel rooms are all two-room suites. Guests receive a hot breakfast each morning, and the hotel’s famous for its hot chocolate chip cookies.
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT: PASS IT ON MENTORSENSURING THE FUTURE OF HUNTING THROUGH PARTNERSHIPSFOREWORD BY ROB SEXTON, NAGA EXECUTIVE DIRECTORARTICLE BY BRITTANY FRENCH, PASS IT ON – OUTDOOR MENTORS CEOFor small nonprofit organizations like NAGA, it’s essential to build strong partnerships. Banding together toward common goals function as “force multipliers,” allowing smaller associations to accomplish much greater things. A great example for NAGA is our alliance with the National Association of Egg Farmers in 2017 to persuade Congress of the need for indemnity for low pathogenic avian influenza. We were successful because, together, our reach went far beyond our individual capabilities. When it comes to ensuring the future of hunting, the need to collaborate is unquestioned. The gamebird industry depends on a steady stream of hunters each year and it’s no secret that, for the past 40 years, sportsmen and women have become an aging demographic. This year’s NAGA Hunting Club Conference featured an organization trying to do something about this ongoing challenge. We strongly encourage NAGA members to lend a hand to their important work. Brittany French is the CEO of Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors, a Kansas-based national organization founded to mentor young people into the outdoor lifestyle. AT PASS IT ON Outdoor Mentors, our mission’s simple, but vital: mentoring youth through hunting and fishing to ensure that future generations carry on our outdoor traditions. Every year, we connect thousands of young people with safe, structured and meaningful hunting and fishing opportunities. These experiences don’t just teach skills – they instill responsibility, respect for the land and a love for the outdoors.One of the greatest challenges we face today is access. Many families, especially those living in urban areas, lack the land, 22 • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • NAGA NEWS(888) 582-7438• Tough TopperTM Gamebird Netting• Dura ToughTM Gamebird Netting• Custom Sizes • Large Inventory• Same-Day ShippingTM G bi d N ttiEaCall Us forSrly Springpecials!
mentors or resources needed to introduce their kids to hunting. This is where hunting preserves play a critical role. By opening their gates to youth hunts and mentoring opportunities, preserves provide the safe and supportive environments needed to give young people their first real taste of the field.PASS IT ONOutdoor Mentors is seeking partnerships with hunting preserves because they provide one of the best gateways to quality hunting experiences that’ll ensure a memory that leaves a novice hunter wanting more. Preserve partnerships ensure that youth don’t just have a “one-and-done” experience. By working with preserves across the country, we can offer ongoing hunts, continued skill-building and mentorship that keeps kids engaged long after their first outing. These repeated opportunities are what turn curiosity into passion – and passion into lifelong participation.For preserve owners, partnering with Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors is more than just hosting a hunt – it’s investing in the future of our sport, our heritage and our way of life. By giving kids a chance to experience upland hunting, preserves can directly help build the next generation of ethical hunters and conservationists. Together, we can ensure that the call of a flushing bird, the teamwork of a good dog, and the joy of a day afield will continue to be part of America’s story.We’re actively seeking partner hunting preserves to offer hunting opportunities for young people. We’re not asking for a free lunch. We have other partners that will help underwrite the costs of these experiences, although we would appreciate some preferred pricing to help us get as many into the field across the country as possible. No one provides a complete one stop shop experience the way a hunting preserve does. From the clubhouse gathering in the morning, the meeting up with a guide, quality hunting dogs in the field, dressed out birds to take from the experience and some expertise on how to enjoy a meal that comes from the day, a hunting preserve is just a great place to hook a young person on hunting. I hope NAGA members will consider becoming a part of the work we do. I promise you’ll gain great satisfaction watching these kids get their first experiences. And you’ll play a role in growing your own future customers. If you’re interested in finding out how you can help, email me at [email protected] RREESSEERRVVAATTIIOONN SSYYSSTTEEMMwwwwww..iinnffoo@@mmiillffoorrddhhiillllss..ccoomm 992200..669999..22224499““BBuuiilltt BByy AA HHuunntt CClluubb,, FFoorr HHuunntt CClluubbss””wwwwww..MMiillffoorrddHHiillllss..ccoommInventoryManagementInventoryManagementAccess 24/7/365Access 24/7/365Cost SavingCost SavingUser FriendlyUser FriendlyMember DatabaseMember DatabaseAccurateAccurateMemberMemberIInnccrreeaassee PPrrooffiitt$$
Inside MacFarlane’s Breeder Selection ProgramBY MACFARLANE PHEASANTS, INC. At M a c Fa r l a n e P h e a sa n t s, s e l e c t i n g o u r b r e e d i n g st o c k i s o n e o f t h e m o st i m p o r t a n t t a s k s o f t h e ye a r. C a r e f u l s e l e c t i o n e n s u r e s t h e l o n g - t e r m h e a l t h o f o u r f l o c k s a n d t h e c o n s i st e n t q u a l i t y o f t h e c h i c k s we p r ov i d e t o c u st o m e r s a c r o s s t h e i n d u st r y. He r e ’s a closer look at how our program works and what makes it effective.TIMING AND WEIGHT STANDARDSBreeder selection begins each year in mid-August and continues through early December. By that time, hens are about 18 weeks old and cox are 22 weeks old. These are the ideal ages for evaluation. Birds must fall within a strict weight range to be considered: hens between 1.75 to 2.05 pounds and cox between 2.7 to 3 pounds.To establish consistency, we weigh the first 100 birds to set a selectable weight range for each group. This keeps our breeder weights uniform and ensures that selected birds are strong and healthy.PHYSICAL AND BEHAVIORAL TRAITSWeight is just the starting point. Each bird is examined closely for overall vigor, body confirmation, clear eyes, full feathering, good tail length and freedom from defects, such as crooked toes, bad legs or wattles on hens. Respiratory health is also essential.We also prioritize birds from strong hatches, reinforcing the link between good starts and future productivity. This combination of physical and behavioral selection helps us build resilient breeding groups.GENETICS AND DIVERSITYTo maintain genetic strength, we select only first-year hens and cox. Recycling hens year after year can reduce vigor, so we 24 • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • NAGA NEWS SERVING KS, OK, TX & NMSpecializing in Gamebird Feeds for Chukar, Pheasant & QuailRandy Dowling✔FOR ALL YOUR NUTRITIONAL NEEDS✔ BULK OR SACK DELIVERY100 Maple St., Pratt KS 67124 • (800) [email protected] INSIGHTS
always start fresh. With roughly 42,000 hens and 2,600 cox selected annually, we maintain the ideal ratio of one male per 16 hens while avoiding inbreeding.THE SELECTION PROCESSEach day, our four-person crew processes about 1,000 birds. Every bird is weighed and inspected by hand. Once chosen, breeders have their right-wing primary feathers clipped to prevent injury from flying. If peepers are missing, they’re replaced to minimize pecking issues.At the end of the day, selected birds are moved to isolated flight pens. Once a barn reaches capacity (about 3,012 hens), the birds are crated, dusted for mites and lice and shipped to our Missouri farm where they’ll enter production barns. Cox remain in Janesville, Wisconsin, where they are “lit” under controlled light schedules to prepare them for breeding before being paired with hens in January.The crew’s lead is responsible for catching, selection and recordkeeping. Accurate records of the number caught, selected and rejected help us track progress and evaluate results year to year.FEEDING AND HOUSINGBreeders are fed a 20% grower diet until two weeks prior to laying season when they transition to a higher-protein breeder feed. Birds are housed at five square feet per bird to ensure comfort and health.Lighting is carefully managed to stimulate production. Hens begin increasing their light schedule after Thanksgiving, reaching 13 hours of light by mid-January. Cox follow the same schedule, but two weeks earlier, to ensure they’re ready to breed when placed with the hens. All breeding is natural with no artificial insemination.CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENTWhat makes this process unique at MacFarlane Pheasants is our commitment to ongoing refinement. We continuously evaluate within each breed for areas of improvement – whether it’s color, tail length or weight. By targeting groups ahead of time and selecting at the right age, we ensure steady improvement in the quality of our chicks year after year. NAGA NEWS • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • 25Dan Barngrover • Baxter Springs, KS • 620-674-2474 • [email protected] than 30 years of experience in the gamebird industrySPECIALIZING IN DAY-OLD CHICKS AND MATURE BIRDSLongtail Farm ad_05.indd 1 7/31/23 9:57 AMNEW & USEDCLAY TARGET EQUIPMENTSERVICEREPAIRRENTAL FLEETWIRELESS RELEASE SYSTEMVOICE ACTIVATEDCOURSE DESIGN & CONSULTINGSHOOT MANAGEMENTEVENT SUPPORTBill Prindle 208•390•2577 Andy Perkins 816•423•9557TRAP • SKEET • SPORTING CLAYS • SHOTGUN • RIFLE • PISTOLHUNTING • PRESERVE • HUNT PROPERTY CONSULTANTSGive Us A Call!We Can Turn Your Property IntoA Sportsman’s ParadiseIF WEDON’T KNOW THEANSWER, WE KNOW SOMEONE THATDOES!
Reducing the Impact of Stress after TransportRON DVORAK, PH. D., NUTRITIONAL HEALTH APPLICATIONS LLCProper management during gamebird transport is critical in delivering healthy, vigorous birds. Precautions must be taken during crating and shipping birds to minimize stress. Because birds are sensitive and nervous animals, relocation can be a tricky business.Loud noises, aggressive handling, feed and water intake disruptions, and change of environment all contribute to stress during the transportation process. Often, during transport, the birds experience a degree of heat stress. During unloading at the destination, minimizing noise levels and exhibiting a calm demeanor are important. The transportation process results in physiological changes due to the stress experienced by the birds. They’ll be dehydrated and body energy reserves will be depleted. Therefore, a stress management program using nutritional supplements to restore body reserves will help revitalize their health and vigor.Stress and the disruption of feed and water intake have a negative impact on gut health. Whenever the intestine is without feed for at least six hours, the intestinal mucosa starts to break down, resulting in gut barrier destruction (known as leaky gut). Additionally, there’s a shift in gut microflora with a reduction in the beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria) with an increase in E. coli, salmonella and clostridia. The imbalance can lead to mild enteritis.Key nutrients identified as being important in preparing birds before shipment as well as after relocation include electrolytes, vitamins and probiotics. Administer a water supplement with these nutrients for one to two days prior to transport to help build reserves. Upon arrival at the receiving pen, it’s critical to provide readily available feed and water. Feed should be nutritious and palatable so that birds can restore energy and amino acid needs quickly. If possible, provide a bag of the feed on which the birds were raised since the familiarity will encourage quicker feed consumption. Just feeding grains 26 • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • NAGA NEWS NUTRITION NOTE
doesn’t provide adequate nutrition. Your gamebirds are athletes and need proper nutrition to function at peak performance.A water supplement (i.e. – in-VIGOR-ate® from Clear View Enterprises, LLC) that’s acidified and contains electrolytes, vitamins and probiotics should be provided for three days. The electrolytes (particularly with a high ratio of potassium to sodium) will promptly rehydrate the birds. Vitamins A, D, C and E will provide support to the immune system. Probiotics will help reestablish the desired gut microflora balance to reduce incidence of enteritis. The objective is to provide vigorous healthy birds for the hunt. Stress management programs during both transport and receiving birds helps assure successful delivery..NAGA NEWS • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • 27International PheasantManagement SeminarMarch8-112026pheasant.comLake Lawn ResortDelavan, Wisconsin2026Scan to Register!Deadline to register is February 15, 2026Or call 608-757-7881IMPAIRED BARRIER OF THE SMALL INTESTINE (LEAKY GUT)HEALTHY INTESTINAL BARRIERLEAKY GUT SYNDROMENORMAL TIGHT JUNCTIONSNORMAL TIGHT JUNCTIONSPATHOGENS FOOD PARTICLESINTESTINAL MUCOSA
2026 NAGA CONVENTIONCHARLESTON, THE SOUTH CAROLINA PORT CITY FOUNDED IN 1670, IS DEFINED BY ITS COBBLESTONE STREETS, HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGES AND PASTEL ANTEBELLUM HOUSES, PARTICULARLY IN THE ELEGANT FRENCH QUARTER AND BATTERY DISTRICTS. THE BATTERY PROMENADE AND WATERFRONT PARK BOTH OVERLOOK CHARLESTON HARBOR, WHILE FORT SUMTER, A FEDERAL STRONGHOLD WHERE THE FIRST SHOTS OF THE CIVIL WAR RANG OUT, LIES ACROSS THE WATER.NorthAmericanGamebird.comJOIN US IN CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA, FOR THREE DAYS OF INFORMATIVE PRESENTATION, PANEL DISCUSSIONS AND NETWORKING SPECIFICALLY TARGETED TO GAME BIRD PRODUCERS, HUNTING PRESERVE OPERATORS AND OUTDOOR INDUSTRY MEMBERS!FEBRUARY 2-4HYATT PLACE/HYATT HOUSE —CHARLESTON HISTORIC DISTRICTINFORMATIVE PRESENTATION, PANEL DISCUSSIONS AND NETWORKING Chffl le on, South Cffl olina
NAGA NEWS • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • 29CLASSIFIEDS • CALENDAR • NEW MEMBERSCL ASSIFIEDS Day Old Chicks and Flight BirdsBobwhite quail or ring-neck pheasant. NPIP. AI Clean. NAGA Member – Harper’s Game Farm 806-435-0528 HarpersGameFarm.com Booker, TexasMature Flight Conditioned Chukar for sale in three locations in Pennsylvania and Missouri. Since opening a new location, we now have more growing capacity and can take on new customers. We raise chukars yearround for your off-season needs. Delivery available. Call Wesley at White Oak Farm (717) 587-7192. WELCOME NEW MEMBERSDIAMONDBlue Hill Hatchery & Gamebirds, Inc.Tipton, KansasHatchery, ProducerSPONSORColchis Bird Farm LLC Sublette, KansasHPO, ProducerBUSINESSKleist Acres Pheasant Farm LLC Brillion, WisconsinHPO, ProducerWalker GamebirdsHarveyville, KansasHatchery, HPO, ProducerBASICAlabama Gamebirds, LLC Troy, AlabamaNPIP, ProducerHigh Desert Hunt ClubGorman, CaliforniaJacob ToonkelDover Plains, New YorkJording Companies, LLC Ismay, MontanaNPIP, ProducerPlumbsock Valley FarmWantage, New JerseyNPIP, ProducerWingzEssex, IllinoisProducerADVERTISE HERE! NAGA Basic members receive one free classified ad per membership year. Business, Sponsor and Diamond members receive two free classifieds. Additional classified ads are only $25 for 50 words or less, plus $.50 per additional word. Please send ads to [email protected] CALENDAR OF EVENTS2026JANUARY20-23NSSF – The Firearm Industry Trade Association SHOT ShowVenetian Expo and Caesars ForumLas Vegas, NevadaSHOTShow.org27-29IPPE – International Production and Processing ExpoGeorgia World Congress CenterAtlanta, GeorgiaIPPExpo.org FEBRUARY2-4NAGA ConventionHyatt Place/Hyatt House – Charleston Historic DistrictCharleston, South CarolinaNorthAmericanGamebird.com/Tickets/Convention-Registration20-22National Pheasant Fest & Quail Classic Minneapolis Convention CenterMinneapolis, Minnesota PheasantsForever.org/Pheasant-FestMARCH8-11MacFarlane Pheasants, Inc. International Pheasant Management SeminarDelvan, WisconsinPheasant.com JULY20-22NAGA Hunting Club ConferenceEmbassy Suites By Hilton – Omaha Downtown Old Market Omaha, NebraskaOakwood Game Farm, Inc. PO Box 274 Princeton MN 55371 1-800-328-6647 www.oakwoodgamefarm.com Taking orders for pheasant & chukar partridge eggs & chicks! Also ask about our predator control device, Nite Guard Solar!
Keith HoughtonONE OF NAGA’S MOST WELCOMING AMBASSADORS PASSES AT AGE 76On Aug. 17, 2025, former NAGA Board Member Keith Houghton passed away after a battle with several health issues. Keith and his wife, Debra, were longtime owners of Ringneck Ranch in Tipton, Kansas.He was born on Aug. 11, 1949, and grew up on the family ranch south of Tipton, Kansas. Keith went on to graduate from Kansas State University in 1971, and served as K-State mascot, Willie the Wildcat, from 1970–71. He had a 38-year aviation career that included flying for TWA and American Airlines, and later served as a flight instructor. At a time when NAGA struggled to reach hunt clubs, Keith was a great ambassador for the organization. He was friendly and welcoming to all, humble and self-deprecating, and eager to figure out the bridge between the value of the organization and the vital potential membership of the network of hunting preserves across the U.S. Following his tenure on the NAGA Board of Directors, Keith and Debra continued to stay active with the organization, participating in the annual convention, the planning of NAGA’s 2017 trip to Washington, D.C., to visit with members of Congress and, later, assisting with planning the first two NAGA Hunting Club Conferences in Ohio in 2022 and in his native state of Kansas the following year. Ringneck Ranch’s a destination hunting lodge and preserve, and Keith was willing to allow it to be used for promotional work on behalf of both the gamebird and firearms industry. The ranch was featured in a video produced by NSSF – The Firearm Industry Trade Association. On a personal note, in 2014, as a new face to an industry of longtime relationships, I found Keith to be warm and welcoming. He was a great ambassador to hunters, his fellow gamebird business associates and, frankly, everyone he encountered. He will be missed. 30 • NOVEMBER 2025 / DECEMBER 2025 • NAGA NEWSANNOUNCEMENTSSUNDAY HUNTING APPROVED IN PAPennsylvania recently passed legislation rescinding the previous ban on Sunday hunting. The legislation also gave the Pennsylvania Game Commission control to expand Sunday hunting opportunities for hunters.House Bill 1431 was signed by Governor Shapiro on July 9, as Act 36 of 2025, and the new law took effect on Sept. 7. After the bill was signed, the game commission revisited the previously approved 2025-2026 hunting seasons to determine where it would be appropriate to expand Sunday hunting. As a result, 13 additional Sundays have been added this fall with more to be determined in the future.Although the ban on Sunday hunting was rescinded, the game commission still had language in their regulations banning Sunday hunting on commercial hunting preserves. The process to change game commission regulations takes months, which would have prevented preserves from opening on Sundays for the majority of the season. To remedy the situation, the game commission is issuing a special Sunday use permit to allow commercial preserves to remain open on Sundays until the regulation can be changed.For more information, scan the QR code, or click on the alert bar at the top of the game commission’s home page at PA.Gov/PGC. Clicking on the link will take you to a page with complete information on the changes.
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