Welcome to www.swmoqu.org!
About Us...
The Southwest Missouri Chapter of Quail unlimited was founded in 1985 by a concerned group of individuals, who wanted to be a part of the one and only conservation organization dedicated solely to conserving and managing our nations wild quail populations.
In the 80’s the chapters role was more management than anything else, but as the years have passed and the quail have continued to decline, today’s QU is much more about creating and restoring the disappearing habitat of this once thriving species. Habitat loss through certain land management practices, invasion or introduction of exotic/non-native plant species, over grazing and human population expansion otherwise known as “urban sprawl”, are major factors that effect the ground dwelling bird and it’s ability to survive. Weather and predation play a part in the decline of this species, too, but the main contributing factor to the quail’s population decline across its home range of 22 states, is the loss of the habitat components necessary for its survival: Nesting cover, brood-rearing areas and escape cover.
Hunting is not the primary motivation for our existence as a chapter. We assist those with hunting in mind, as well as those individuals who prefer to merely observe the interesting little birds. We do not ask for hunting access through our conservation efforts on private land, although a good number of us enjoy quail hunting behind a good dog. As responsible and ethical stewards of the sport, we hope that our work and efforts will someday lead to a hunt-able population of the Northern Bobwhite.
As 95% of all land in Missouri is privately owned, our chapter has worked hard through the years assisting landowners with cost-share assistance, cash incentives, equipment and manual labor, to help them with their goal of providing more habitat for quail to exist on their land. We ask nothing in return except for them to join our mission as a QU member, and to consider a voluntary donation. There is strength in numbers. Our national organizations voice in Washington DC wouldn’t be nearly as strong when lobbying for wildlife-friendly Farm Bill programs, if we were 4200 members strong, instead of 42,000. These programs bring not only quail-friendly acres back to our state but major dollars for the rural economies and landowners who take advantage of them.
We believe that our goals will take time, money, labor, education, and the willingness to be actively doing something. We believe that even though sometimes our resources and opportunities may be limited, even the small things make a difference and will someday add up to a greater result.
The Southwest Missouri Chapter of Quail Unlimited is proud to be a part of the communities of Southwest Missouri. The funds generated through our various events and donations of money, merchandise, and services are deeply appreciated and carefully utilized in our ongoing efforts.
Our Mission
Quail Unlimited® was founded in 1981 to battle the problem of dwindling quail populations and declining wildlife habitat and is the oldest national, nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to the wise management of America's wild quail. Known as "America's Leader In Quail Conservation," our overall vision is to restore America's quail populations for future generations.
Our core values include the wise stewardship of our land and its resources, and the continuation of our proud heritage of conservation, therefore, leaving a legacy and firm foundation for our youth and families to build upon. Our members are from all walks of life, but they all have the common thread of being interested in quail conservation, now and for the future.