AFI New England Garbage & Grouse - 2025
Event Start Date: 10/11/2025 8:00 AM
Event End Date: 10/11/2025 4:00 PM
Timezone: EDT
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There are currently 9 spaces left.
Cost: $0.00
Maine AFI is hosting the 2nd Annual Garbage & Grouse Stewardship Event!
Why You Should Want to Attend:
The Armed Forces Initiative is Backcountry Hunters & Anglers’ program focused on building conservationists within the military community. Maine AFI is bringing back our popular Garbage & Grouse event—combining a classic New England bird hunt with a stewardship cleanup of the hunting area. Participants will team up with local mentors and bird dogs to chase ruffed grouse through the vibrant fall woods while improving access and habitat by packing out litter from the day’s hunt.
This year’s event takes place in the publicly accessible private timberlands of Maine’s High Peaks region near Byron, showcasing the unique relationship between hunters, landowners, and access laws in the Northeast. Over lunch, participants will discuss Maine’s “implied access” tradition—how stewardship, respect, and responsibility keep these lands open for future generations.
What It Is:
A one-day stewardship and upland hunting event highlighting how conservation and ethical hunting go hand-in-hand. Participants will:
• Hunt ruffed grouse alongside experienced mentors and trained dogs
• Remove debris and trash from hunting areas to maintain access
• Learn about safe field practices and low-impact hunting techniques
• Discuss the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation and the concept of “implied access”
• Build camaraderie within the veteran and outdoor community
When Is It:
Saturday, October 11, 2025 | 8 AM – 4 PM (EST)
Where Is It:
Coos Canyon Rest Area
1 Byron Village Rd, Byron, ME 04275
Who Can Attend:
• All members of the military community: Active Duty, Reserves, National Guard, Veterans, and Gold Star Families
• Anyone passionate about supporting veterans and conservation
• You don’t need to be a BHA member (but we’d love to have you join!)
Limited to 10 participants—RSVP required.
What to Bring:
• Shotgun (12–20 gauge)
• Maine small game license (3-day license available)
• Hunter orange hat or vest
• Brush-style bird hunting pants (recommended)
• Bug spray, water, snacks, and lunch
• Work gloves for the cleanup component
Weather & Safety:
If early snow or unsafe conditions develop, the event will be rescheduled. Participants will be notified via email.
Questions?
For any questions, please contact Elijah Ellis, Maine AFI Liaison at meafi@backcountryhunters.org
Come see why BHA's Armed Forces Initiative is the fastest-growing outdoor program for the military community and help bring more folks outdoors in New England!