Heritage Skills USA About Us Page

  Heritage Skills USA partners with local skilled community members and area tourists attractions that are nature based. Bushcraft legend Dave Canterbury and his team of highly skilled Pathfinder's School instructors are featured presenters at our events.  

Dave Canterbury is a renowned figure in the world of bushcraft and survival skills, known for his extensive knowledge, practical expertise, and contributions to wilderness self-reliance. Born on September 19, 1963, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Dave's journey into the realm of survival training and bushcraft was fueled by a deep passion for the outdoors and a lifelong commitment to learning and teaching survival techniques.

Before becoming a prominent bushcraft instructor, Dave served in the U.S. Army from 1981 to 1987, where he developed a solid foundation in survival and fieldcraft. His military service, combined with subsequent experiences in commercial fishing, hunting, and trapping, provided him with a robust set of skills essential for surviving and thriving in the wild.

In 2007, Dave Canterbury founded the Pathfinder School, located in Southeast Ohio. The school quickly gained a reputation as one of the premier institutions for learning survival and bushcraft skills. The curriculum is designed to teach students practical and effective methods for surviving in various wilderness environments, emphasizing self-reliance, resourcefulness, and traditional skills.

The Pathfinder School offers a wide range of courses, from basic survival and bushcraft skills to advanced training in primitive hunting, trapping, and navigation. The school also provides specialized training in firecraft, shelter building, foraging, and tool-making. These courses are meticulously structured to ensure that participants gain hands-on experience and confidence in their ability to handle real-world survival situations.

Dave Canterbury is well-known for his teaching philosophy, which revolves around the 10 C’s of Survivability: Cutting tools, Combustion devices, Cover, Containers, and Cordage. This framework provides a comprehensive approach to understanding and prioritizing essential survival gear, ensuring that individuals are well-equipped to handle emergencies in the wilderness.

Dave's expertise extends beyond teaching at the Pathfinder School. He is also a prolific author, having written several books on survival and bushcraft, including the widely acclaimed "Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival." His books are celebrated for their clear, concise, and practical advice, making them valuable resources for both beginners and experienced outdoor enthusiasts.

In addition to his written work, Dave Canterbury has gained a significant following through his appearances on television and social media. He co-starred in the popular Discovery Channel series "Dual Survival," where he demonstrated his survival skills in various challenging environments. His YouTube channel, which features instructional videos on a wide range of survival topics, further solidifies his status as a leading authority in the field.

Through his dedication to teaching and his innovative approach to bushcraft, Dave Canterbury has inspired countless individuals to develop their survival skills and foster a deeper connection with the natural world. The Pathfinder School remains a testament to his commitment to education and his belief in the importance of self-reliance and preparedness.

Dave Canterbury's contributions to the field of bushcraft have not only enriched the lives of his students but have also helped to preserve and promote traditional survival skills for future generations. His legacy as a bushcraft expert and educator continues to grow, making a lasting impact on the global community of outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists.

 Ecotourism has emerged as a powerful tool for revitalizing rural communities with limited industrial opportunities. In the United States, promoting ecotourism plays a crucial role in enhancing Americans' connection with nature and supporting local home and small businesses. Research has shown that ecotourism brings not only economic benefits but also social and environmental advantages to these communities.

One of the key economic benefits of ecotourism its ability to create jobs and stimulate local economies. By attracting visitors to explore natural landscapes, rural areas can diversify their sources of income beyond traditional industries. According to a study by the Center Responsible Travel, ecotourism in the US generates $77 billion in revenue annually and supports over 1 million jobs. This influx of tourism dollars boosts local businesses such as restaurants, accommodations, and tour operators, providing a much-needed economic boost to rural communities.

In addition to economic benefits, ecotourism also fosters a deeper connection with nature among Americans. By immersing themselves in the natural world, visitors gain a greater appreciation for the importance of conservation and environmental protection. This increased awareness can help preserve natural landscapes for future generations. Moreover, engaging in ecotourism activities such as hiking, foraging, and simply going fishing can improve visitors' physical and mental well-being, promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Furthermore, ecotourism has positive social impacts by fostering community resilience and cultural preservation. By promoting local traditions, crafts, and cuisine, ecotourism helps preserve the unique identity of rural communities. This not only provides a source of pride for residents but also attracts visitors who are eager to experience authentic cultural experiences. Ecotourism initiatives often involve collaboration with local communities, empowering residents to take ownership of their natural resources and share their knowledge with visitors.

In conclusion, ecotourism is a valuable tool for revitalizing rural communities, connecting Americans with nature, and supporting local economies. By promoting sustainable tourism practices, we can strike a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation.  Let us all embrace the importance of ecotourism in fostering community resilience and conservation efforts for a brighter, more sustainable future.

 Far more than half of the Heritage Skills USA event attendees travel back to Vinton County each year to attend the event and reconnect with not only nature but the many friends and favorite instructors they have come to know and love. Attendees stay in touch with each other and instructors via the social media platforms of the event and through the Heritage Skills USA Network.

Heritage Skills USA is committed to providing evidence-based blog, book, homesteaders in America, hands-on survival training class content that has been successfully practiced professionals in the survival, bushcraft, and homesteading fields.

We are dedicated to offering hands-on homesteading, bushcraft, and survival skills events for youth and adults at events throughout the year. We prioritize hosting homeschool events and creating The Homestead Homeschool curriculum, as well as providing homesteading books and survival guides. Our mission is to boost ecotism in rural Appalachia, Ohio, and promote nature learning and local self-reliance through skilled instructors. Join us in our commitment to fostering a sense of connection to the natural world and empowering individuals to thrive any environment.