Tools for Her Success
Experts answer your questions about the NWTF's Women in the Outdoors outreach program and outdoor gear for ladies.
Since You Asked...To view a list of the questions we received that didn't quite fit under a designated topic, click here. |
Q: Are there any resources besides the Internet that we can use to spread information about Women in the Outdoors and upcoming events to our friends?
— Darlene Shouse, Callahan, Fla.
A: We rely on our volunteers to communicate with their local media, by inviting members of the media to their event. Without a doubt, observing NWTF's hard-working volunteers and participants as they enjoy a day in the great outdoors would inspire great stories.
Another avenue to generate publicity for an event or chapter is to provide local media with information and/or pictures about the event afterward. No one can tell the story or create enthusiasm better than the people who were directly involved in the event. Don't forget to e-mail your pictures and information about your event to me at tcarroll@nwtf.net. While we cannot guarantee information about your event will be included in Turkey Country magazine, we are always looking to highlight the awesome work our chapters are doing around the country.
We have press release templates available online at www.nwtf.org/outreach/manual.html that can be customized to fit your event. You can share these press releases with various media outlets within your area. If you have a press release to send out, you can e-mail Melanie Swearingen at mswearingen@nwtf.net to request a list of media e-mail addresses in your area. We also have one-page color poster templates that you can customize and post at local businesses.
— Teresa Carroll, NWTF Women in the Outdoors coordinator
Q: As a participant in Women in the Outdoors, I want to know how long the program has been in this area and why we don't have more publicity. I would like to see some newspaper articles showing what these women have accomplished and how more young women could be active.
— Jareb Cotner, Wadsworth, Ohio
A: The Women in the Outdoors program officially began in 1998 and the first NWTF event for women in Ohio was held later that year in Jackson. Spreading the word about the Women in the Outdoors program is vital to the program's growth. Please see the previous answer to learn how you can help your local Women in the Outdoors chapter or event gain attention for their hard work.
Q: The NWTF has done a fantastic job to help introduce children to the outdoors. The Families Afield program has been very instrumental in helping promote hunting to our youth. Are there any specific plans to help promote youth events through the Women in the Outdoors program? How does the program help promote hunting to female youth? Thank you!
— Chris Creed, Niles, Ohio
A: NWTF strives to find new ways to help introduce all members of a family to hunting. With support from the South Carolina Forestry Commission, the Hunting with a Hero program and other sponsors, the NWTF Edgefield Chapter launched a few new styles of hunts in 2009.
Within the women's program, this chapter offered a dove hunt that paired many first-time hunters who were current active-duty servicewomen with civilian women. In addition, we are making plans to host similar hunts this year such as a dove hunt through the NWTF's JAKES (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship) outreach program, which will pair boys and girls with a mentor.
— Teresa Carroll, NWTF Women in the Outdoors coordinator
Q: Do members receive a discount to attend a Women in the Outdoors program?
— Bridget Cain, Evergreen, Ala.
A: The membership fee for current Women in the Outdoor members is waived when attending events unless the member is within a few months of expiration. This time frame varies by state, so be sure to check the policy in your state when registering for an event. We want to provide this incentive while keeping our members active.
— Teresa Carroll, NWTF Women in the Outdoors coordinator
Q: What outreach programs are being offered for women in Botetourt County, Virginia? I love to turkey hunt and would like to attend some hands-on training session on gun handling, archery shoots, turkey calling and hunting techniques. Also, what are the correct boots to wear hunting? Where can I find size 7W for women?
— Treva Layne Campbell, Eagle Rock, Va.
A: To find out about Women in the Outdoor events in your area, visit www.womenintheoutdoors.org and click on "Events." Select your state and see what upcoming events are listed. Some events will have a downloadable flyer that can provide detailed information about the event. Or you can contact the coordinator listed for further information. The Web site is updated weekly with new events so please check back often.
Finding the right hunting boots can be a challenge. I suggest you browse various Web sites such as Bass Pro Shops, Dick's Sporting Goods, Academy Sports + Outdoors or Cabelas. Look for boots that are waterproof and offer ankle support. I purchased a pair of RedHead hunting boots that work for me. Although they aren't categorized as a wide boot, they are much wider than the average medium width.
— Teresa Carroll, NWTF Women in the Outdoors coordinator
Q: I have only been a member since last fall and would like to know why more information isn't available to other women so they can find out about all the programs offered and become active in all the activities offered in Ohio.
— Karen Cotner, Wadsworth, Ohio
A: You can learn more about NWTF activities in your state by visiting www.nwtf.org. Select your state on the "NWTF In Your State" panel. You will find a list of outreach events and banquets near you, as well as other helpful information pertaining to your state.
— Teresa Carroll, NWTF Women in the Outdoors coordinator
Q: It is disappointing that there are no events for women in Maine. I participated in two events hosted by a now defunct NWTF chapter in Rumford and registered for one in the Bangor area another year, but was the only registrant. It is so frustrating for someone who goes through the planning process only to have no participants.
Then I see the state chapter of Becoming an Outdoor Woman (in conjunction with the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife) has a sold out women's weekend every year. I am told some participants are repeats but they go for a reason. Can someone set up a successful Women in the Outdoors event? I'd love to participate again and again and might get others to also. Thank you!
— Aileen Kennedy, Farmington, Maine
A: We are working to provide Women in the Outdoors events in Maine; however, it takes individuals like you who are passionate about the program to help us get started. Have you considered coordinating an event? Please visit www.nwtf.org/outreach/manual.html for additional information. Coordinating an event alongside a committee of dedicated volunteers is a very rewarding experience. You may be surprised to find women in your area who are interested in getting an event started. It is well worth the effort, especially when you get to see women step out of their comfort zone to shoot a handgun or try archery for the first time. Whatever their classes, women leave these events empowered by the confidence they gained and they return home with more friends than they had when they arrived.
— Teresa Carroll, NWTF Women in the Outdoors coordinator
Q: I am chairman of our local NWTF chapter, and my question is, "Why doesn't the banquet package have more items for the WITO tables?" I am an avid turkey hunter and would like to see some items especially for us "lady" hunters. Thank you!
— Karen Masterson, Miller City, Ill.
A: All banquets and banquet packages vary. We've tried to incorporate items that appeal to women in the Core Package, i.e. the Mt. St. Helens jewelry for 2010. Field staff members are allowed flexibility to select additional merchandise for each banquet, because not all banquets have a women's table. Our goal is to be the one stop shop for your banquet. Contact your Regional Director and let him/her know what type of items you'd like to have. Also, I'd love for you to send me an e-mail at ndaniels@nwtf.net with your ideas.
— Natalia Daniels, NWTF director of sales and product development
Q: Is there a Web address to the new Turkey Shoppe in Edgefield we can shop at?
— Patti Salley, Gloster, La.
A: Many items that are available at Turkey Shoppe on Main in Edgefield are also available online. Some fragile items are excluded from our online site due to the damage that could be caused during shipping. We will soon be launching OutdoorDealHound.com, which will be Turkey Shoppe and a whole lot more. The merchandise assortment will be larger and we think you will be pleased with the deals.
— Natalia Daniels, NWTF director of sales and product development
Q: I'm looking for a unique Mother's Day gift for my stepmom, who loves the outdoors and hunting. What does the NWTF have to offer?
— Adrienne Cobert, Virginia Beach, Va.
A: For a really special gift, I suggest finding a Hunting Heritage Banquet in your area. There are many exclusive items available like signed and numbered prints, sculptures, jewelry, hunting accessories, even guns. We also have our online auctions that feature great gift ideas. We offer some great hunting gear and clothing items in our Turkey Shoppe online. If your mom's not a member already, an NWTF membership is a great idea. You don't have to worry about sizes and she will receive membership benefits including Turkey Country magazine for her to enjoy all year.
— Natalia Daniels, NWTF director of sales and product development
Q: My question concerns outdoor products for hunting. Does anyone make a scent killer hair spray for women? I know there are all types of scent killer products out there but haven't seen a hair spray for women that doesn't have an odor. The beauty section of some stores will have an unscented hair spray; however, it still has a certain odor to it.
— Bernadette Duty, Waverly, Ohio
A: I don't know of a scent killer hairspray. There is a line of scent prevention products for women by Dead Down Wind. The Huntress line features shampoo and hair gel.
— Natalia Daniels, NWTF director of sales and product development
