WHAT we do

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The Gaston County Piedmont Area Wildlife Stewards (the PAWS) was created by a group of local sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts with the goal of concentrating more of their conservation efforts in our area. We are a chapter of the North Carolina Wildlife Federation, a nonprofit 501(c)3 corporation.

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The PAWS is currently active in creating, improving, and preserving all types of wildlife habitat in Gaston County and the surrounding communities, with successful projects including wood duck box and game plot installation on the property of Valley Proteins, Inc. (Carolina By-Products) and other locations; soil stabilization and erosion control at the Bit of Hope Ranch; and underwater fish habitat and Osprey nesting structure placement on Lake Wylie. We also participate and partner with the NCWF in the Wildlife and Industry Together Program (WAIT).

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Other chapter activities include: A yearly Wildlife Benefit Banquet; yearly Youth Day Event; project work days; various shooting events; and in conjunction with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission host a community event teaching the NC Hunter Safety Course, as well as participating in events of the North Carolina Wildlife Federation and our sister chapters.

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Gaston County PAWS was proud to receive the North Carolina Wildlife Federation 2011 Chapter of the Year award. We were also recognized by the Governor's Conservation Achievement Awards Banquet that same year. The North Carolina Wildlife Federation again honored the PAWS group with the 2015 Chapter of the Year award. This was achieved through the dedication and hard work of its members and the support of the communities to which we serve.

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Participation and membership in Gaston County PAWS is open to anyone interested in the conservation and protection of our area wildlife and their habitat. We invite you to join the PAWS which simply requires your participation.

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We also invite you to join the North Carolina Wildlife Federation.

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