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QDMA...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.
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Quality Deer
Management Association
PO Box 160
Bogart, GA 30622
1-800-209-DEER (3337)
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