#493 The Path to Wild Quail: Inside the Ames–Tall Timbers Partnership

Step into West Tennessee with the Tennessee WildCast team as we broadcast from the National Bird Dog Museum in Grand Junction. Host Jason Harmon and co‑host Amy Spencer sit down with experts Matt Backus of Ames Plantation and Alex Jackson of Tall Timbers to explore an exciting new chapter in quail restoration and field trial tradition. Ames Plantation has hosted bird dog field trials for 127 years, and now a bold, science‑driven partnership aims to bring wild quail back to the landscape and elevate the National Championship experience.Matt and Alex explain how intensive habitat management, timber work, prescribed fire, and strategic predator practices are being used to restore early successional habitat and rebuild healthy quail populations on more than 5,000 acres. They discuss how these changes benefit not only bobwhites but a variety of wildlife species, and how the research‑based work at Ames could inspire landowners across West Tennessee and beyond.Listeners will also learn why the afternoon field trial course is undergoing major restoration, how long the transition may take, and what milestones indicate success. The crew highlights the importance of community outreach, landowner education, and the rich hunting and conservation heritage tied to quail management.Whether you’re a field trial fan, a habitat enthusiast, or simply curious about what it takes to restore wild birds in today’s landscape, this episode provides a deep look at intentional land stewardship and the people making it happen. Join us for a fun, informative, and forward‑looking conversation.