SCDNR’s “Take One Make One” Program Fosters Safe Hunting and Conservation Skills

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) is actively promoting its “Take One Make One” (TOMO) program, an initiative designed to introduce students to safe hunting practices while instilling an appreciation for wildlife and the natural environment. The program aims to encourage experienced adults to “pass on” traditional outdoor skills to the next generation.

TOMO’s core mission emphasizes safe and ethical hunting, the conservation and responsible use of natural resources, and character education. It targets students who may have no prior hunting experience, providing a structured and mentored introduction to the outdoors.

The program operates through two primary focus areas:

• TOMO Trailers: These mobile education trailers travel throughout South Carolina, appearing at local events and festivals. They offer youth opportunities to experience shooting sports and learn about the outdoors in a hands-on environment, serving as a vital recruitment tool for the broader TOMO program.
• First-Time Youth Hunts: TOMO provides a specific mechanism for students aged 10 through 17 to engage in first-time youth hunts. Participants are carefully paired with experienced hunters who serve as sponsors and actively participate in TOMO’s hunting mentorship program, ensuring a safe, ethical, and educational experience.

The TOMO program plays a crucial role in safeguarding the future of hunting and conservation by educating young people on responsible outdoor practices.

For more information about the TOMO Program, interested individuals can visit SCDNR online.