In 1928, a group of anglers concerned over the future of Ontario’s natural resources formed what was has become Ontario’s leading conservation organization. In 1947, the group joined forces with several hunters’ organizations and became known as the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH).

Since its humble beginnings, OFAH has been the backbone of Ontario’s fish and wildlife conservation and its lobbying voice. OFAH leadership on issues such as invasive species, anti-poaching, habitat restoration, fish stocking, and hunter education are admired and sought-after internationally by its conservation allies. The OFAH has a worldwide conservation reputation for spearheading three historic conservation achievements—the restoration of wild turkey, elk and Atlantic salmon to their respective parts of Ontario.

A LOOK AT OFAH'S AMAZING CONSERVATION WORK

OFAH conservation work benefits many species of wildlife (not just game species). Over the years, the federation has invested millions of dollars into fish and wildlife research and restoration projects for wetlands and rivers and a wide variety of projects for species. In 1993, thanks to a generous land donation combined with a large amount donations from members, OFAH moved into its new home—the Ontario Conservation Centre, located along the Otonabee River right here in Peterborough.

Strategically located between Toronto and Ottawa, and at the gateway to some of Ontario’s best untouched wilderness, the headquarters is home to over 50 full time employees and now has over 100,000 members, subscribers and supporters!

THE VITAL IMPORTANCE OF BEING AN OFAH MEMBER

As a not for profit, non-government, registered charity, the federation depends on its members to continue on with its conservation efforts. From Peterborough, OFAH delivers Angler & Hunter television and a provincially acclaimed radio show by the same. OFAH is also home to Ontario OUT OF DOORS, a 48-year-old publication that has become Canada’s best read outdoors magazine.

Locally, if you enjoy our new ice fishing opportunities, fall turkey hunting as well as Sunday gun hunting, you are benefiting from the hard work of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters. Peterborough and area students also benefit from the generosity of OFAH life member, Mario Cortellucci, the leading benefactor for the OFAH Hunting and Fishing Heritage Centre. Since the ribbon was cut on this centre in 2010, over 7,000 students have participated in OFAH conservation education programs there. Thousands of local families have also visited the OFAH to wet a line in the Shimano Fish Pond, draw a bow at the Excalibur archery range or take shots in the Stoeger airgun range.

THE KEY ROLES OF OFAH

Conservation education is a key OFAH priority, particularly as the province’s population shifts more and more from rural to urban lifestyles. The Federation is concerned that attitudes toward traditional outdoor pastimes have changed or become dangerously misunderstood. That’s why the federation not only supports Ontario’s natural resources; it also promotes our cultural heritage as well. The OFAH is pleased that promotion for our hunting heritage is working. Last year, the Ontario Hunter Education program welcomed over 25,000 students, an astonishing 50 percent increase over the past 15 years.

With the backing of a strong OFAH membership which continues to grow, the grassroots insight from a deeply committed volunteer Board of Directors and the leadership of a highly motivated professional staff team, OFAH members can always count on being effectively represented on almost every outdoor issue in virtually every part of Ontario.

In the end, after all of the education and conservation efforts, the OFAH delivers the voice of all of its members. Despite many challenges facing Ontario’s outdoors community, the Federation has achieved countless new fishing and hunting opportunities in Ontario—opportunities that would be simply unimaginable without the vision and forward thinking attitude of its members.

For more information on OFAH and to find out about the incredible membership opportunities it offers, visit:
Website: ofah.org/deertrail
Twitter: @ofah
Facebook: OFAH
YouTube channel: OFAHCommunications

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