Jake Piper focuses on trapping predators after noticing the declining quail population in his area.
Jake Piper, a junior from the Bowling Green FFA Chapter in Missouri, has turned his passion for hunting, fishing and all things outdoors into a successful Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) in wildlife management. Growing up hunting alongside his father, Piper developed an interest in trapping after hearing his dad and his friends discuss the practice. His curiosity led him to trapping videos on YouTube, which inspired him to purchase his first raccoon traps from a local feed store. Over time, Jake expanded his skills and now uses a variety of traps and sets to capture different animals.
This hobby became his SAE, where he traps animals both for conservation efforts and for profit through selling their hides. Piper’s SAE earned first place at the Missouri FFA Convention and later received a bronze rating at the National FFA Convention.
Piper noticed a declining quail population in his area and decided to focus on trapping predators like raccoons and skunks to give the quail a chance to thrive. Before he started trapping, he says he “rarely saw quail,” but now it’s common to spot two to three every time he’s out working or riding around. He takes great pride in seeing his efforts pay off. “This may not sound exciting, but for me, seeing something like that work out — something you’ve invested so much time into — is really amazing.”
His trapping efforts have not only helped increase the quail population but also reduced crop damage and boosted the numbers of other desirable wildlife, such as turkey. The income from selling the pelts is an added benefit.
After high school, Piper plans to study conservation in college. His involvement in career development events (CDEs) like forestry and agronomy has deepened his appreciation for plants and soil, and he could see himself pursuing a career in those areas as well.
To Future Generations
When asked if he would recommend trapping as an SAE to others, Piper said yes, but emphasized that patience is key. Learning to read the land — such as identifying game signs and trails — was something he picked up through trial and error, pointing out that almost anyone can gain the skills. He also noted that trapping can enhance the chances of a successful hunt. In some counties, there are even bounties for raccoons due to their large population.
As a successful FFA member, Piper shared some advice for newcomers. “Just keep working and improving,” he said. “There are endless opportunities in this country and in the FFA organization. You get out of it what you put into it.”
He also recalled an experience from his freshman year when a staff member told the auditorium, “If you don’t get involved, these will be the most boring four years of your life.” Since then, Jake has been actively involved in FFA, which has made his high school years much more enjoyable. He’s grateful for FFA and encourages others to join, believing that everyone has a place in the organization.
