Conservation doesn’t start in the woods, it starts with people willing to pass along knowledge, values and a sense of responsibility to the next generation.

In Chautauqua County, that commitment is alive and well thanks to many conservation groups. This weekend, it is the Lakeshore Longbeards, a local chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, whose mission centers on ensuring young people have meaningful opportunities to experience outdoor adventure, archery, safe awareness of firearms and archery use, and learn about the traditions and fun of turkey hunting.

For decades, the NWTF and its local affiliates have worked to protect wildlife habitat while cultivating future conservationists. One of the most impactful ways they do this is through youth-focused programming that introduces kids to hunting traditions, ethical decision making, and hands-on outdoor skills. From turkey calling championships in the Junior and Poults Divisions to archery, shooting sports and interactive workshops, these events spark curiosity and confidence while reinforcing respect for wildlife and the land.

Central to these efforts are JAKES Day events — Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics, & Sportsmanship — which serve as a gateway for young outdoor enthusiasts. JAKES Days provide a safe, welcoming environment where youth can learn from experienced mentors, try new activities, and discover the fun and challenge of the outdoors. Workshops and events from across the region are coordinated through the NWTF and listed on the organization’s main events page, making it easy for families to get involved.

In an era often described as the “golden digital age,” opportunities to disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature have never been more valuable. Outdoor programs like these teach patience, problem solving, and personal accountability — skills that extend far beyond the field.

Just as importantly, they help build a lifelong appreciation for conservation and the role sportsmen and women play in sustaining healthy wildlife populations.

None of this work happens without strong community partnerships. The Westfield Fish and Game Club has been instrumental in linking up with the Lakeshore Longbeards in supporting youth initiatives in Chautauqua County. Westfield has generously provided facilities, time, and food for events and workshops. Their dedication ensures that local youth have access to high-quality programming and a supportive place to learn, grow, and build lasting connections to the outdoors. The Lakeshore Longbeards extend sincere thanks and accolades to the club and its volunteers for their continued commitment to the future of conservation.

To support these efforts, the Lakeshore Longbeards will host a fundraising dinner, raffle and banquet style event this Saturday at the recently renovated and historic White Inn. Located in downtown Fredonia, doors will open at 5 p.m., with dinner at 6:30 p.m., followed by a live auction, raffles and other festivities.

For info or tickets, contact Robert Turk Jr. at 716-673-6703. For online tickets and additional event information, visit https://events.nwtf.org/EVT-20816. Related, please take note that mega-volunteer Bob Turk Sr. was injured and hospitalized last week. Please send him your blessings and keep him in your prayers for a full recovery.

Proceeds from the evening will directly benefit the Lakeshore Longbeard youth hunting and outdoor education programs, including JAKES Day events held in conjunction with the Westfield Fish and Game Club. Community members are encouraged to attend, bring friends and take part in an evening that celebrates conservation, tradition and youth engagement. By supporting this fundraiser, attendees are helping ensure that Chautauqua County’s outdoor heritage continues to thrive — one young hunter, archer, and conservationist at a time.

Gotta love the outdoors.

CALENDAR

Feb. 7: Lakeshore Longbeards NWTF Banquet, White Inn, 5 p.m. doors open, 6:30 p.m. dinner, live auction, raffles, annual youth event fundraiser; Info: Robert Turk, 716-673-6703; https://events.nwtf.org/EVT-20816.

Feb. 10: Children in the Stream, Youth Fly Fishing program, free, Costello Room, Rockefeller Art Center, SUNY Fredonia, 7-8:30 p.m., 12 years old and older, info: 716-410-7003 (Alberto Rey).

Feb. 11: Lyme WNY, monthly meeting, 6-8 p.m., East Seneca Fire Hall, 100 Lein Road, West Seneca; visit https://www.lymewny.com.

Feb. 12-16: Birds on the Niagara International Bird Festival, visit https:/www.bird-niagara.org/.

Feb. 13-16: Great Backyard Bird Count, a global citizen science event. Visit Merlin Bird ID online.