Conservation Partner Program
The Conservation Partner badge recognizes outfitters and guides who go beyond the minimum — actively contributing to wildlife conservation and habitat preservation.
Why Conservation Partners Matter
Hunters and anglers are the backbone of wildlife conservation in America. Through license fees, excise taxes, and direct contributions, sportsmen and women fund the vast majority of habitat preservation and wildlife management.
But some outfitters go further — investing their time, land, and resources into conservation beyond what's required. The Conservation Partner badge helps you identify these operations so you can book with outfitters who share your values.
How Outfitters Qualify
To earn the Conservation Partner badge, an outfitter must demonstrate commitment in at least three of the following areas:
✓Conservation Organization Membership
Active membership in at least one recognized conservation organization such as RMEF, NWTF, DU, Pheasants Forever, Trout Unlimited, or a state-level wildlife federation.
✓Ethical Hunting Practices
Commitment to fair chase principles, legal compliance, and responsible harvest practices. No tolerance for poaching, baiting violations, or disregard for bag limits.
✓Habitat Stewardship
Active participation in habitat improvement — whether through food plot management, stream restoration, invasive species removal, or financial support of habitat programs.
✓Client Education
Educating clients on wildlife management, conservation funding (Pittman-Robertson, Dingell-Johnson), and the role hunters play in sustaining healthy ecosystems.
✓Catch-and-Release / Selective Harvest
For fishing charters: promoting catch-and-release for vulnerable species and following selective harvest guidelines. For hunting: supporting quality deer management or similar programs.
How to Apply
If you're a guide or outfitter listed on Gray Bear and you meet the criteria above, we'd love to recognize your conservation commitment.
- Make sure you have an active listing on Gray Bear Hunting Directory
- Contact us with details about your conservation activities and organization memberships
- Our team will review your application and may ask for supporting documentation
- Approved outfitters receive the Conservation Partner badge on their listing
Looking for Conservation-Minded Outfitters?
Browse our directory and look for the Conservation Partner badge on listings from outfitters who actively support wildlife conservation.
Browse the Directory