Episode 229: Bird Dogs, Big Bucks & Classic Perspectives with Project Upland’s AJ DeRosa

Summary: In this episode, Justin Townsend and Adam Berkelmans discuss the evolving landscape of hunting in North America, focusing on the rise of food-focused hunters and urban deer hunting. They are joined by AJ DeRosa, who shares his insights on urban deer hunting, the importance of food in hunting culture, and the unique culinary experiences that come with wild game. The conversation explores the challenges and opportunities in modern hunting, conservation policies, and the stories that connect hunters and non-hunters alike. In this conversation, the speakers delve into various topics related to hunting, cooking, and conservation. They discuss the value of bear meat and fat, innovative cooking techniques using indigenous ingredients, and the underappreciated culinary potential of octopus. The conversation transitions into the origins and growth of Project Upland, emphasizing its authenticity and commitment to ethical hunting practices. The speakers also address the challenges facing hunting and conservation today, including the need for a more responsible approach to wildlife management and the importance of acknowledging the impact of lead in hunting. In this conversation, AJ discusses the evolving landscape of hunting, emphasizing the need for the community to embrace scientific truths and adapt to changing practices. He highlights the curiosity of younger hunters, the challenges of recruitment through the R3 program, and the integral role of food in hunting culture. AJ also delves into the political aspects of conservation, arguing that the narrative surrounding hunting has been skewed by partisan politics. He advocates for diplomacy and collaboration among hunters and conservationists to ensure the future of hunting rights and wildlife management. - Leave a Review of the Podcast - Buy our Wild Fish and Game Spices The Art of Venison Sausage Making Guest: AJ DeRosa Instagram Project Upland Instagram Project Upland Website Takeaways: Wild food is reshaping the way we think about hunting. Grouse hunting offers a unique culinary experience compared to big game hunting. Learning to handle wild game properly is essential for quality cooking. Diversity in wild game offers a rich culinary experience. Bear fat is highly valued for its culinary uses. Innovative cooking can elevate traditional ingredients. Octopus is an underappreciated delicacy that deserves more attention. Project Upland originated from a desire to spend more time hunting. Younger hunters are more curious and engaged with ecological issues. The narrative around hunting needs to be reframed. Community engagement is crucial for the future of hunting. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Wild Food and Hunting Culture 05:31 AJ DeRosa: Background and Urban Deer Hunting 09:31 The Evolution of Hunting Techniques 22:11 The Role of Food in Hunting 28:43 Culinary Experiences with Wild Game 29:10 The Value of Bear Meat and Fat 31:05 Innovative Cooking with Indigenous Ingredients 33:05 Exploring the Culinary Potential of Octopus 33:59 The Birth of Project Upland 38:54 The Authenticity of Project Upland 44:59 The Ethics of Hunting and Conservation 51:59 The Future of Hunting and Conservation Challenges 55:32 Embracing Change in Hunting Practices 58:11 The New Generation of Hunters 01:00:19 R3 Recruitment and Its Challenges 01:04:26 The Role of Food in Hunting Culture 01:07:03 Politics, Conservation, and Public Perception 01:12:39 The Class War in Hunting Rights 01:15:45 Building Bridges: Diplomacy in Conservation 01:20:34 The Future of Hunting and Food Culture Keywords: Wild food, hunting culture, urban deer hunting, conservation policy, food-focused hunters, hunting techniques, culinary experiences, wildlife, food culture, hunting, conservation, food culture, recruitment, public perception, politics, wildlife management, new generation hunters, R3 program, community engagement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices