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

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.

 

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 or management project. Applicants should be prepared to submit a detailed project proposal if requested. The scholarship is intended to provide field experience and training in the tools, methods and concepts of waterfowl and wetlands research and management. A committee composed of previous students and professional colleagues 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 and detailing any requirements (e.g. provision for a final report or thesis) for receiving university credit. 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

• Resume
• Statement of interest
• Letter of support from faculty member
• Names and phone numbers of two references
• All entries should be single-sided with no staples PLEASE!

Mail to:

Attn: 

Katie Shafer

California Waterfowl
1346 Blue Oaks Blvd., Suite 100
Roseville CA 95678

Email: kshafer@calwaterfowl.org

2025 Dennis Raveling scholarship winners:

 

2024 Dennis Raveling scholarship winners:

 

2023 Dennis Raveling scholarship winners: