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A Feeling of Belonging
By: Michael D. Winkel
My wife Carol and I have belonged to the Central Wisconsin
Branch of the Quality Deer Management Association (QDMA) for
nearly four years now, and what an enjoyable and encouraging
four years it has been. Of all the groups and organizations
we have been associated with over the years, we place the
QDMA at the top of the list. No other organization has ever
kept us so excited all 12 months of the year as the QDMA
does. It seems that we are always talking about or planning
QDM concepts among ourselves or with our friends and
neighbors. And trust me, we are not alone. It seems that
everyone we know who is affiliated with the QDMA feels the
same way.
When you see on of those circular black and white QDMA
decals or one of those green and white "Let Him Go So He Can
Grow" bumper stickers on a car or truck, don’t you get a
warm feeling of pride and belonging? It seems like no matter
how far you may be from home, you are almost there because
you are among QDMA members. Even if you have never met them,
you get a warm feeling just knowing that there are others in
the area who share similar interests. Hopefully their doors
will be open to assist a fellow QDMA member should the need
arise.
Or how about when you are at the checkout line at the local
store and you notice that the person next to you is wearing
a QDMA cap or shirt. How many times have you started talking
to this person about your common ground?
Yes! The QDMA is a different type of association. It is an
association where every person is treated and feels the same
way. Whether they are a large landowner, a small landowner,
a hunter, or even a non-hunter, the QDMA brings everyone
together for a common cause the love of deer hunting and
management.
Although we all have a great interest in the QDMA, we are
still in our infancy and are just starting to mature. By
working together we can make the QDMA even greater, larger,
and more unique. As the concept of QDM continues to expand
throughout the country, we must all do our part to promote
the good will of the QDMA. This personal touch is what helps
set the QDMA apart from other associations. So, in order to
keep this great association growing, we all need to commit
100% to our common goal. We can start by proudly displaying
our QDMA decals and by wearing our QDMA caps and shirts with
pride.
If I sound excited, it’s because I am! I truly believe in
the QDMA and want to see it continue to expand at a rapid
rate. Throughout history, the white-tailed deer has given so
much to the people of this great country, now it is our time
to give something back to the deer and the areas in which
they live.
The Quality Deer Management Association is more than just
another association, it’s a feeling of belonging.
Click here to join now!
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