OUR STORY

The California Deer Association was born from a simple but powerful idea: that California’s deer herds and wildlife habitat deserved a dedicated organization focused on their long-term conservation. In July 1996, a group of passionate hunters, conservationists, and outdoor enthusiasts gathered in San Jose to discuss creating a new organization that would raise funds specifically for habitat improvement and deer conservation projects throughout California. The response was overwhelming, and by August 1996 the California Deer Association was officially established.

From the beginning, CDA was built on a grassroots model driven by volunteers who were willing to donate their time, energy, and resources to protect California’s deer populations. The organization quickly formed a Board of Directors, pursued nonprofit status, and began building local chapters across the state. Early leaders worked closely with the California Department of Fish and Game, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, Department of Forestry, private landowners, and wildlife biologists to identify and support meaningful habitat projects.

 

The founders believed that improving habitat was the most effective way to strengthen deer populations, and they committed the majority of fundraising proceeds to on-the-ground conservation work within California’s borders. Today, that same vision continues to guide the California Deer Association. Three decades later, CDA remains committed to conserving and enhancing deer habitat, promoting responsible stewardship of California’s natural resources, and ensuring that future generations can enjoy healthy deer populations and thriving wild landscapes.