Why It Matters: The National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucuses (NASC) unites state legislators from across the nation under the NASC umbrella. While many of the focal topics are similar, each state is unique in some ways, making the diverse tools provided by the NASC network an important bridge for policymakers. Hawaii has an exceptionally unique set of sporting-conservation policy considerations, ranging from wildland fire and flood management to non-native ungulate species management, and more. Recognizing this, the 2026 Caucus event represents an important step in continuing conversations between legislators, the sporting community, and the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR).
Highlights:
- Last week, the Hawaii Legislative Outdoor Heritage Caucus hosted an educational meet-and-greet to connect Caucus members with the sporting-conservation community.
- Caucus Co-Chairs and DLNR representatives played key roles in organizing topics of focus for this event.
- The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) will continue facilitating Caucus meetings and events, serving as the bridge between policymakers and the sportsmen’s community.
Hawaii’s Legislative Outdoor Heritage Caucus is the newest member of the NASC network, having officially joined in December 2022. The Caucus is dedicated to protecting and advancing the rights of Hawaii’s residents to hunt, fish, and pursue other traditional outdoor activities.
On the evening of January 9, the Hawaii Legislative Outdoor Heritage Caucus hosted a successful meet-and-greet reception at the AC Hotel Honolulu, marking the start of the 2026 legislative session. The event was designed to connect legislators with representatives from the sporting community and staff from the Department of Land and Natural Resources. The reception was well-attended by Hawaii DLNR, local and national sportsmen’s organizations, and state legislators. Presentations included an overview of sportfishing economic impact in Hawaii by the American Sportfishing Association, as well as information on the American System of Conservation Funding by CSF. DLNR staff also provided in-depth updates from each division, highlighting topics such as hunter participation demographics and watershed protection initiatives, as well as ongoing conservation efforts across the state. Caucus Co-Chairs Senator Lynn DeCoite and Senator Tim Richards addressed attendees, emphasizing the importance of protecting and advancing the rights of Hawaii residents to hunt and fish.
The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation will continue to facilitate Caucus meetings and events, connecting legislators with appropriate DLNR staff and conservation partners to address priority issues. CSF extends its thanks to all those who attended and contributed to the success of this event and looks forward to building on this momentum in the 2026 legislative session.
