Hunter Participation Grew in 2002

In numbers recently released from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and available on the Hunting section of the NSSF Web site there was an increase in the total value of hunting licenses, permits, and stamps of 2.4 percent over 2001. While the total number of hunters remains near 15 million according to NSSF, hunters spent 2.6-percent more in the latest reporting year’a total of $658,993,798in pursuit of their sport.

And, since 1939, in special taxes paid only by hunters and shooters, almost $4 billion has been contributed toward conservation. Keep those numbers handy when you make that call or write to your Senators. Expanding Hunting and Angling Opportunities Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus members, Senators Kent Conrad (D-ND) and Pat Roberts (R-KS), introduced the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program Act of 2003 to establish funding for state walk-in hunting and fishing programs.

This legislation, called the "Open Fields" bill, would authorize $50 million annually through 2007 to fund state efforts to develop voluntary, incentive-based programs that expand public access to private lands. The legislation is being spearheaded by the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership and is supported by more than 20 sportsmen’s organizations, including NSSF.

Jodi Valenta, NSSF’s director of recruitment and retention, notes: "With dwindling opportunities to participate in traditional outdoor sports, this legislation creates new access to lands previously unavailable to the public. Just as it did with the financial commitment to state fish and wildlife agencies, through the Hunting Heritage Partnership Grant Program, NSSF supports legislative efforts opening up additional access.

Free Pocket Fact Cards As a sportsman who enjoys hunting, you can change perceptions among the non-hunters or anti-hunters you may encounter when you are armed with the facts. NSSF’s Hunter’s Pocket Fact Card provides statistics showing that hunters and anglers are among the largest group of contributors to conservation, paying for programs that benefit wildlife and habitat restoration. One pocket card is free, and larger quantities are available for a nominal charge. Visit NSSF’s web site for more information.

Editor Keith Lawrence Technical