California Waterfowl offers a number of scholarships to get youth into the field and support educational goals.

California Waterfowl's First Flight Program

Celebrating Milestones. Inspiring the Next Generation.

The First Flight Program is California Waterfowl’s signature youth initiative—an all-inclusive celebration of one of the greatest milestones in the outdoors: a young hunter’s very first duck and first hunt. This isn’t just about introducing youth to waterfowl hunting—it’s about honoring the excitement, pride, and lifelong connection to nature that comes with that unforgettable day.

A Safe and Memorable First Hunt

This isn’t just about introducing youth to waterfowl hunting—it’s about honoring the excitement, pride, and lifelong connection to nature that comes with that unforgettable day.

Opportunities For the Hunt, and Beyond

The First Flight Program goes further, with:

Special Youth Hunts at premier locations across California.
Awards and Recognition presented annually at CWA events, from camps and banquets to chapter gatherings.
Scholarships supporting post-secondary education—college or trade school—for youth with a demonstrated interest in waterfowl, wetlands, or hunting, or who have shown a strong volunteer spirit in these areas.

Together, these opportunities build responsibility, respect for wildlife, and a love for wetlands—ensuring tomorrow’s conservation leaders begin their journey with a strong foundation in both tradition and stewardship.

A Legacy That’s Growing

This program was launched through the generosity of Johnny A. Ribeiro Jr., whose passion for youth, wetlands, and hunting made First Flight possible. With additional support, First Flight can expand its reach—creating more memories, more opportunities, and inspiring countless young people to embrace both hunting and conservation for years to come. To learn how you can contribute, contact VP Fund and Membership Development Scott Mueller, smueller@calwaterfowl.org.

Eligibility

Age 17 or younger
Current CWA Sprig or Life Membership
Valid California Hunting License

Scholarships

Application details published annually by December 31
Application deadline: March 31

Special Youth Hunts

Hunt dates, locations, and criteria published by October 1 annually

Awards

Nominations open year-round
Presented annually at select CWA events

The Dennis Raveling Scholarship

The Dennis Raveling Scholarship for Waterfowl Research is awarded annually to a student(s) with a desire to pursue a career in waterfowl or wetlands ecology. Awards are based on the candidate's resolve, high academic achievement and project merit. Candidates must be pursuing an advanced university degree in wildlife, zoology, botany, ecology or other pertinent biological science.

Applicants should submit a ONE-page proposal summary description on an original research project which should include a brief explanation of how findings would be useful in conservation management. Applicants should be prepared to submit a detailed project proposal if requested. The scholarship is intended to support field experience and training in the tools, methods and concepts of waterfowl and wetlands research and management. A committee composed of waterfowl professionals representing the legacy of Dennis Raveling will select the winning candidates.

Applicants should submit a resume and a brief (one-page) study proposal or statement explaining the course of study for which they need support. This material must be accompanied by a letter from a faculty member indicating willingness to sponsor the candidate. The names and phone numbers of two references are also required (include at least one University instructor and/or previous employment supervisor).

Application deadline: December 15th

Complete package should include:

One page, single-spaced proposal summary