Clay Stoppers Events
Operation Game Thief (OGT) hosts clay shooting events that mix fun with purpose, bringing people together to protect Texas wildlife.
Participants can test their shooting skills and learn about OGT’s work to fight poaching and protect wildlife. Event proceeds support efforts like raising awareness and offering rewards for tips that help stop wildlife crimes. Whether you’re an experienced shooter or trying it for the first time, these events are a great way to have fun and make a difference.
During the off-season, OGT works with partners and sponsors to plan next year’s Clay Stopper events. About two months before each event, our website will update with registration details and information.
Upcoming Events
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Operation Game Thief (OGT) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization working on improving the quality of life in Texas by actively engaging individuals and communities to protect our natural resources. The organization helps prevent theft and destruction of wildlife and natural habitats through outreach, education, and a confidential reporting system.
OGT was created in 1981 through a law passed by the 67th Legislature to combat poaching. This was largely thanks to efforts by former Speaker of the House, Gib Lewis, who has been on the OGT Board since its creation. This successful program operates under the law enforcement division of Texas Parks and Wildlife. OGT is Texas’ wildlife crime-stoppers program and offers rewards of up to $1,000 for tips that lead to the arrest and conviction of wildlife criminals.
In the last 10 years, OGT has given over $300,000 in grants to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) to buy specialized equipment for game wardens. The program relies on public support, which includes memberships, merchandise sales, donations, sponsorships, and gifts.
Operation Game Thief (OGT) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization working on improving the quality of life in Texas by actively engaging individuals and communities to protect our natural resources. The organization helps prevent theft and destruction of wildlife and natural habitats through outreach, education, and a confidential reporting system.
OGT was created in 1981 through a law passed by the 67th Legislature to combat poaching. This was largely thanks to efforts by former Speaker of the House, Gib Lewis, who has been on the OGT Board since its creation. This successful program operates under the law enforcement division of Texas Parks and Wildlife. OGT is Texas’ wildlife crime-stoppers program and offers rewards of up to $1,000 for tips that lead to the arrest and conviction of wildlife criminals.
In the last 10 years, OGT has given over $300,000 in grants to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) to buy specialized equipment for game wardens. The program relies on public support, which includes memberships, merchandise sales, donations, sponsorships, and gifts.
Game Warden Memorial
Each day, over 550 Texas game wardens dedicate themselves to protecting the state's natural resources. It's a legacy they've carried on since game wardens first enforced resource conservation laws in the Lone Star State prior to the turn of the century (1895). Texas Game Wardens also help to keep their communities safe, patrol the state's vast waterways, and respond to natural disasters. For 19 wardens, that dedication cost them their lives.
A memorial honoring Texas Game Wardens who lost their lives in the line of duty has been erected at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center in Athens, Texas. The Memorial Plaza features a bronze life-sized Game Warden statue accompanied by the Texas and American flags.
Following is a list of Texas Game Wardens who died in the line of duty, and the circumstances surrounding their deaths:
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Joe Williams and Harry Raymond
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Dawson Richard Murchison
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R.M. Wynne
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Gus Engeling
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Claude Keller
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J.D. Murphree
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Joe Evans
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Lloyd Gustin
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Ronnie Germany
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James Daughtrey
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Sergeant James Birmingham
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Barry Decker and Bruce Hill
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Mike Pauling
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Wes Wagstaff
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Justin Hurst
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Teyran (Ty) Patterson
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George Harold Whatley, Jr.
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Clay Stopper Events
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As a nonprofit, OGT receives no state tax dollars and depends entirely on public donations to fulfill its mission. A major source of funding is the annual OGT Clay Stoppers sporting clay shoots. These are held in Austin, Houston, San Antonio, and the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
View Upcoming Events
Wall of Shame Trailer
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One of the most visible ways OGT spreads the "Stop Poaching" message is through its Wall of Shame trailer and smaller regional trailers. These trailers are showcased at outdoor fairs, schools, and various events to highlight why OGT's mission is important.
View More Information About the Trailer
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Contact Us
Report Violations
800-792-GAME (4263)
General Inquiries
512-389-4628
Our Address
4200 Smith School Road Austin, Texas 78744