Erin Crider, the founder of Uncharted Outdoorswomen, stands as a trailblazing figure in transforming the landscape of outdoor activities for women. Through her personal journey, marked by overcoming gender biases and stereotypes in a male-dominated field of hunting and guiding, Erin has established a unique platform that not only encourages women's participation in hunting, fishing, and other outdoor pursuits but also emphasizes conservation, ethical practices, and public land use. Her organization, Uncharted Outdoorswomen, is not just about providing outdoor experiences; it revolves around fostering a supportive space for women in the outdoors. Recognizing that women represent the fastest-growing demographic in outdoor activities, the organization aims to address the trend of women being the quickest to leave such pursuits. The key factors identified for retention include building confidence in outdoor skills, providing opportunities for skill development, and creating a community where like-minded women can connect for hunting and fishing experiences. The ultimate goal is to establish a positive equation that results in a growing community of female hunters who consistently contribute to conservation efforts through the purchase of fishing and hunting licenses and tags.

Challenges in Hunting and Guiding

Facing significant barriers as a woman in the male-dominated field of hunting and guiding, Erin's move to Colorado in 2014 marked the start of a challenging journey. Her passion for waterfowl hunting was met with resistance, as no guides were willing to assist her, contrasting with their willingness to guide her uninterested husband. This experience, reflecting the broader gender biases and lack of inclusivity in the outdoor sporting industry, propelled Erin to obtain her outfitter's license and establish Uncharted Outdoorswomen, a trailblazing, woman-focused guiding service in North America. Through this initiative, Erin confronts industry stereotypes, creating a space for women to learn, participate, and gain confidence in outdoor activities with a focus on ethical practices and conservation. Her efforts not only provide guiding services but also foster a community that values independence and respect for nature. Erin's response to these challenges underlines the systemic issues in outdoor sports and exemplifies the transformative power of perseverance and challenging the norm.

Public Land Use and Conservation

Through a variety of activities and programs like fishing, hunting, horseback riding, and foraging, Erin emphasizes ethical practices and aims to build a generational respect for the outdoors. This approach reflects her personal journey and deep connection to land, shaped by her upbringing in Missouri and experiences in Colorado, including her time on conservation boards. By focusing on educating women in outdoor skills and conservation, Erin not only empowers them but also fosters a more informed and responsible relationship with nature. Her work is crucial in breaking down barriers in a male-dominated field, advocating for equality, and reshaping the narrative around gender roles and conservation in outdoor activities, contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable approach to public land use.

Personal Journey and Philosophy

Facing challenges and biases, especially as a female guide in outdoor activities, Erin has encountered attitudes of entitlement and resistance from those accustomed to a predominantly male domain. Her experiences reflect a broader issue in the outdoor community, where new entrants, particularly women, often face skepticism and hostility. This has not deterred her; instead, it has fueled her determination to create inclusive spaces in the outdoors. Erin's approach is characterized by subtlety and strength; she emphasizes the importance of being seen and acknowledged in these spaces without being overly assertive about gender. This philosophy extends to empowering women who have faced adversity, such as those who have experienced domestic abuse, by introducing them to activities like hunting, which can be both empowering and therapeutic. Erin's journey is not just about her personal love for the outdoors but also about challenging norms and empowering other women to find their place in outdoor activities​

Outreach and Education

Crider's initiatives in outreach and education through Uncharted Outdoorswomen are at the core of her advocacy for conservation and public land use, focusing on involving underrepresented groups, in outdoor activities. She addresses the critical need for diverse and practical options in outdoor gear for women, challenging the limited choices available in terms of style and functionality. Erin's holistic approach extends beyond inclusivity, connecting outdoor activities with environmental stewardship and the conservation of natural landscapes. By encouraging participation from diverse groups, she not only fosters inclusivity but also cultivates a deeper commitment to preserving public lands. Her efforts are pivotal in educating on outdoor skills while instilling a sense of responsibility and a profound understanding of the significance of natural resources, thereby promoting a more informed and sustainable approach to outdoor engagement.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Erin Crider's impactful work with Uncharted Outdoorswomen marks a significant stride in reshaping the narrative of outdoor activities. Her dedication to empowering women, advocating for inclusivity, and promoting conservation and ethical outdoor practices sets a new standard in the field. Through her journey, she has not only challenged gender norms but also fostered a community where women can confidently engage in and enjoy the outdoors. Her efforts extend beyond mere participation, instilling a sense of responsibility towards nature and public lands. Erin's work is a testament to the power of perseverance, vision, and the transformative impact of creating inclusive spaces in traditionally male-dominated arenas.