From April 16–19, the Arizona Elk Society proudly hosted another successful Jr. Turkey Camp, bringing together youth hunters, families, and volunteers for a weekend centered on mentorship, outdoor education, and the pursuit of one of North America’s most challenging game birds.
This incredible opportunity is made possible through our strong partnership with the National Wild Turkey Federation. Together, we create an experience that goes far beyond the hunt 
itself. While NWTF provides knowledgeable mentors and hands-on instruction, AES handles the backbone of camp operations—hauling in equipment, setting up camp, and making sure every participant is well-fed and comfortable throughout the weekend.
And that support starts early—really early.
Each morning at 4:00 a.m., AES volunteers are up and moving, preparing hot coffee and grab-and-go breakfasts so hunters can head into the field ready for the day ahead. After the morning hunts, everyone returns to camp for hearty lunches of burgers and hot dogs, followed by evenings filled with incredible meals like brisket, tacos, and spaghetti. With a dedicated kitchen crew of about five volunteers, no one leaves camp hungry.
Education is a cornerstone of Jr. Turkey Camp, and this year was no exception. Under the leadership of Rich Williams, Arizona’s NWTF team did a fantastic job guiding youth through the skills and ethics of turkey hunting. From calling techniques to understanding turkey behavior, the mentors ensured each participant gained valuable knowledge while building confidence in the field.
When hunters weren’t in the field, there was no shortage of activity back at camp. AES brought in archery equipment and set up a range where kids could sharpen their skills during afternoon downtime. The 3D targets—featuring a bear, T-Rex, and javelina—were a huge hit, giving participants a fun and engaging way to practice and build confidence with a bow.
Adding a unique and memorable touch to the weekend, AZ Raptor Center visited camp with a special guest—an owl named Gonzo. This hands-on wildlife experience gave attendees a deeper appreciation for Arizona’s diverse ecosystems and the importance of conservation.
Jr. Turkey Camp is about more than harvesting a bird—it’s about connection. It’s about early mornings, shared meals, learning from experienced mentors, and creating lifelong memories in the outdoors. None of this would be possible without the dedication of our volunteers, the expertise of our NWTF partners, and the support of our community.
We’re already looking forward to next year.
On April 17–18, the Arizona Elk Society’s dedicated Sawyer Crew and volunteers partnered with the Arizona Antelope Foundation (AAF) for a meaningful habitat improvement project 
near Seligman, Arizona.
The project focused on clearing dense juniper overgrowth that had made it difficult to access an old fence line slated for removal. Over time, the area had become heavily encroached, limiting both wildlife movement and the ability for restoration work to take place. AES sawyers stepped in to open up the landscape, cutting and clearing junipers so AAF crews could safely reach the fence and begin the next phase of the project.
That next phase—removing outdated fencing—is a critical step in improving wildlife migration and habitat connectivity. Once cleared, the ranch will install new wildlife-friendly fencing designed to better accommodate pronghorn and other native species, reducing barriers and promoting unrestricted movement across the landscape.
The two-day effort was a true collaboration. AES volunteers worked side-by-side in the field on Friday and Saturday, sharing camp with AAF members and continuing a strong partnership built on a shared commitment to wildlife conservation. In a welcome show of camaraderie, AAF once again provided meals for the AES sawyer crew, helping keep everyone fueled for long days of hard work.
Projects like this may not always be highly visible, but their impact is significant. By improving access and supporting the transition to wildlife-friendly infrastructure, AES and its partners are helping ensure Arizona’s landscapes remain accessible and sustainable for generations to come.
The Arizona Elk Society is proud of its Sawyer Crew and volunteers for their continued dedication, skill, and willingness to step in wherever the work is needed most.
This catchment was constructed by AZGF under a Federal Aid Project (#508) on 08/24/1958. Other than several surface cracks this catchment was still partially functioning to this date.
On 02/4/26, AESWMC and AZ G&F walked the site and developed a restoration scope. The focus would be on the restoration of the concrete surface and perimeter fence. The restoration date was scheduled for 04/25/2026. The catchment concrete surface was Scraped, power washed, dried, primed and coated with a new epoxy type coating. Repairs were made to the perimeter fence (t-posts, wire stretched and clipped as needed) to restrict livestock access to the collection system.
The weather was not very cooperative, providing temps in the mid 40’s, windy and overcast most of the day.
AES is planning for sawyer projects this spring. We currently have a recertification class scheduled in February. We are working on scheduling a new sawyer program as well. Please fill out the form if you are interested. FYI - Sawyers are people who saw timbers. If you have already been in contact with me, you are on the list!
Your donation dollars at work! This picture is from August 19th in Northern Arizona. AES volunteers are the boots on the ground delivering water throughout Arizona. Please consider volunteering or donating today. We live in the desert. It's all about the water!
Water during the birthing season keep the mothers healthy and helps the mothers produce better quality milk and more of it for the newborns.
Water helps distribute the Elk herds and other wildlife for better utilization of the available forage. Insufficient water distribution causes wildlife to gather in specific areas, leading to excessive habitat use. This overutilization results in habitat degradation and a depletion of available food resources.
There are many areas with great habitat for wildlife but no water to sustain them. If we could increase water in areas of quality wildlife habitat and forage we can sustain more wildlife. Higher herd numbers equals more tags for hunters.
It doesn't get much prettier than this! Our water haulers have been busy keeping the catchments filled. OVER 225,000 gallons so far this year. How can you help?
Do you believe in leaving a long-lasting outdoor legacy for future generations? 
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