On June 23, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) traveled to Sonoma, California for the 3rd Annual Wine, Wings & Wildlife Western regional event. The event included a sporting clays competition at Wing & Barrel Ranch followed by an evening wine tasting and dinner centered around discussion on current sportsmen’s priorities in the Golden State.
“With over 1.8 million hunters and anglers spending $3.5 billion annually in California, it is evident that sportsmen and women are vital to the economy and conservation efforts in the state,” said CSF President Jeff Crane.
In addition to representatives from across the West and throughout the country, the event was joined by members of the California Outdoor Sporting Caucus, one of the 48 caucuses under the National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucuses (NASC). Assembly Member Jim Frazier recognized the importance of ensuring pro-sportsmen’s policies in the state: “CSF has been instrumental in helping the California Legislative Outdoor Sporting Caucus grow this past year,” stated Assembly Member Frazier. “Hunters and anglers are vital to the conservation of our fish and wildlife, and as Co-Chair of the California Outdoor Sporting Caucus, I look forward to working with CSF to be a strong voice for sportsmen and women in the State Capitol.” Caucus Member Senator Tom Berryhill was also in attendance.
Prior to the event, CSF presented Lieutenant Commander George Petersen with a ‘Conservation & Sporting Leadership Award’ in recognition of his service abroad and afield. “Thank you to CSF for your tireless efforts on behalf of America’s hunters and fishermen and future generations of sportsmen. I truly believe that without your determination and fortitude those of us who have spent time downrange in our current conflict would be returning to a different country. On behalf of me and my family, thank you. There is no greater calling.”
Title Sponsors included Cabela’s Outdoor Fund, California Waterfowl Association, Winchester Ammunition, and Wing & Barrel Ranch. Host Sponsors included: Bass Pro Shops, Chevron Corporation, National Shooting Sports Foundation, Plano Synergy, Richard Childress Racing, Safari Club International, Shimano American Corporation, Sportsman’s Warehouse, Thompson/Center Arms, Vista Outdoor Inc., and Yamaha Motor Company.
Studies conducted at both the state and federal level have found that the number of hunters and trappers have been on a generally declining trend over the past several decades. To increase recruitment, retention, and reactivation (R3) of hunters and trappers, which initiative do you think would have the greatest impact?
