CSF has been working on the celebration of the 75th Anniversary of WSFR programs at both the state and federal level. CSF, partnering with the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA), developed model resolutions and proclamations in early 2012 to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration program – a key component of the “user-pays, public-benefits” American System of Conservation Funding. CSF has been working with National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucuses (NASC) member caucuses and Governor Sportsmen’s Caucus (GSC) member governors across the nation to pass or sign these resolutions and proclamations. At this time, 16 resolutions have been passed in 14 states and Governors Beebe (Arkansas), Hickenlooper (Colorado), Otter (Idaho), Branstad (IA), Shumlin (Vermont), and McDonnell (Virginia) of the GSC, as well as Governor O’Malley (Maryland) have signed proclamations. Resolutions or proclamations celebrating the unique “user pays-public benefits” American System of Conservation Funding have now been passed or signed in 18 states to date with other governors expected to sign a proclamation before the end of the year.
For more information on the resolutions/proclamations that have been passed or signed thus far click here. For a brief video interview with John Organ (Chief, Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration for the Northeast Region with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) click here.
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?