America’s grasslands, shrublands and pine savannas are disappearing—and with them, the wildlife and traditions they support. Species like the Northern Bobwhite quail have declined significantly as upland habitat continues to shrink across much of their historic range. Reversing this trend will require long-term commitment, practical science, and strong leadership. To meet this challenge, the University of Georgia’s Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources is launching the Upland Game Bird Conservation Program to advance research, student training, and applied conservation in upland ecosystems. A Landscape Worth Saving Upland ecosystems support biodiversity, strengthen rural communities, sustain productive landscapes, and contribute to long-term environmental and economic resilience. For generations, game birds, hunters, and bird dogs have shaped both the culture and conservation of the uplands. Healthy wildlife populations depend on well-managed habitat, while sporting traditions continue to connect people to the stewardship of these landscapes. Building on a Legacy of Leadership The University of Georgia’s Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources is recognized nationally and internationally for leadership in conservation and natural resource management. Through research, teaching, and outreach, Warnell prepares wildlife professionals while advancing science-based conservation across diverse landscapes. Warnell also has a long and distinguished history in upland game research. In the 1960s, the school helped launch one of the nation’s longest-running bobwhite research projects in collaboration with Tall Timbers. Over the past decade, Warnell has: Trained more than 30 graduate students in upland game management Produced more than 100 peer-reviewed publications advancing scientific understanding Engaged thousands of stakeholders through outreach and engagement efforts Despite this success, the future of research funding, student recruitment, and stakeholder engagement in upland game bird conservation is increasingly at risk. A Vision for the Future The Upland Game Bird Conservation Program is designed to create a permanent, integrated program that combines applied research, graduate education, field implementation, and stakeholder outreach. Core Areas of Focus Scientific Rigor Advancing AI-driven monitoring, applied research, and innovative conservation strategies grounded in field science. Mentorship Preparing conservation professionals for careers across agencies, nonprofits, research institutions, and natural resource organizations. Engagement Connecting students and stakeholders to hands-on conservation, stewardship, and applied field experiences. Invest in the Future of Upland Game Bird Conservation Private philanthropy can establish a permanent foundation for excellence in upland game bird conservation through endowments that support leadership, research, student training, and program operations for generations to come. These investments will advance science-based conservation, strengthen partnerships, and prepare future leaders dedicated to sustaining healthy wildlife populations and habitats. Opportunities for Support Named Chair in Upland Game Bird Conservation — $2,500,000 Provides enduring leadership for the program by supporting a nationally recognized expert who will advance innovative research, mentor students, and collaborate directly with partners to conserve and restore wildlife habitat. Learn more As the program’s academic leader, the chair holder will elevate the visibility and impact of upland game bird conservation while serving as a trusted resource for landowners, agencies, and conservation organizations. Establishing a named endowment ensures this critical work is supported in perpetuity. Approximately $100,000 annually is needed to support research supplies, field equipment, travel, student engagement, and a salary supplement. At the $2.5 million level, donors can create a lasting legacy that advances upland conservation and prepares the next generation of conservation professionals. Named Postdoctoral Fellowship in Upland Game Bird Conservation — $2,250,000 Attracts outstanding early-career scientists who bring advanced technical expertise, innovative thinking, and new approaches to addressing complex conservation challenges. Learn more Postdoctoral fellows expand the program’s research capacity, accelerate conservation outcomes, and help train future conservation leaders. The annual cost to support a postdoctoral scholar is approximately $90,000. A named fellowship established at the $2.25 million level will ensure Warnell can recruit and retain exceptional researchers for years to come. Named Graduate Assistantship in Upland Game Bird Conservation — $750,000 Supports graduate students with hands-on training and research experience in wildlife conservation. These emerging leaders will go on to manage natural resources, inform policy decisions, and advance conservation efforts throughout their careers. Learn more Establishing a named endowment ensures Warnell can attract and support top graduate students in the program. The annual cost of a graduate assistantship is approximately $30,000. A named graduate assistantship established at the $750,000 level will advance upland game bird conservation while investing in the future of the conservation profession. Named Upland Game Bird Conservation Program Support Fund — $5,000,000 Equips researchers and field teams with the tools, technology, and operational capacity necessary to address critical conservation challenges and deliver meaningful conservation outcomes. Learn more A named endowment will provide permanent support for equipment purchases, field operations, travel, conference participation, data collection, student engagement, and other program-related expenses. Annual program support needs exceed $1 million. Flexible funding from this endowment will allow the program to respond to emerging conservation priorities, leverage additional grant opportunities, and sustain the infrastructure necessary for long-term success. A named program support fund established at the $5 million level will significantly enhance the program’s ability to conduct innovative research, develop future conservation leaders, inform conservation decisions, and improve wildlife habitat across the region. Interested in Supporting the Program? To learn more about how you can support the Upland Game Bird Conservation Program, contact: Bridget B. HardenSenior Director of Developmentbharden@uga.edu Give Today!
