About Missouri Trappers Association
UTILIZING OUR ABUNDANT MISSOURI WILDLIFE
About the Missouri Trappers Association
Preserving Missouri’s trapping heritage through education, conservation, and community since 1975.
Our Mission
The Missouri Trappers Association (MTA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to safeguarding ethical trapping, supporting science-based wildlife management, and strengthening Missouri’s outdoor community.
- Educate: Promote safe, responsible, and humane trapping practices through courses and hands-on workshops.
- Conserve: Support wildlife management that benefits people, habitats, and healthy furbearer populations.
- Advocate: Protect the rights of trappers and fur harvesters through legislative engagement and public outreach.
- Inspire: Encourage youth involvement to keep Missouri’s trapping traditions alive for future generations.
What We Do
Education & Training
We offer Trapper Education Courses, youth camps, and field demonstrations that teach humane techniques, safety, and wildlife stewardship.
Advocacy & Representation
The MTA works with state leaders and the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) to support fair regulations and protect trapping rights.
Community & Events
Our annual convention, district meetings, and fur auctions bring trappers together to learn, network, and celebrate the trapping lifestyle.
Youth Programs & Outreach
We mentor youth, partner with schools, and offer scholarships for students pursuing conservation or wildlife-related studies.
Conservation & Responsibility
Ethical trapping is conservation in action. By following Missouri laws and best practices, trappers help maintain healthy furbearer populations, reduce property damage, and minimize human–wildlife conflicts.
- Commitment to humane, ethical trapping methods.
- Support for habitat protection and science-driven management.
- Collaboration with conservation partners and agencies.
For current regulations and seasons, please consult the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Our History
Since 1975, the MTA has united trappers, educators, and conservationists to champion responsible fur harvesting and outdoor education. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a statewide network that promotes ethical practices and preserves Missouri’s outdoor heritage.
1975
Missouri Trappers Association is founded to support ethical trapping and education.
1980s–2000s
Expansion of district structure, youth programs, and annual statewide gatherings.
Today
Statewide education, advocacy, and family-friendly events that strengthen Missouri’s trapping community.
Become a Member
Join a statewide community of trappers, educators, and conservationists committed to ethical practices and healthy wildlife. Members receive our newsletter, event invitations, and access to practical resources that make a difference in the field.
Join the MTADistricts & Contact
The MTA is organized into regional districts across Missouri. Your local district can connect you with nearby mentors, events, and resources.
Find Your District
Locate your district representative for meeting dates, training opportunities, and community projects.
View DistrictsGeneral Inquiries
Have a question about membership, education, or events? We’re here to help.
Contact UsOur Core Values
- Respect: For wildlife, private property, and Missouri’s outdoor traditions.
- Safety: Training and practices that put people and animals first.
- Stewardship: Science-based management for sustainable furbearer populations.
- Community: Welcoming families, new learners, and seasoned trappers alike.
- Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in and out of the field.
Help Us Preserve Missouri’s Outdoor Legacy
Whether you’re an experienced trapper or new to conservation, there’s a place for you in the Missouri Trappers Association. Learn more, get involved, and help us ensure a strong, sustainable future for trapping and wildlife management in our state.
Contact Missouri Trappers Association
Get in touch with the Missouri Trappers Association by filling out the contact form. We appreciate your support!
For questions regarding your membership, please call
Joslyn Search: (660)292-1911
