FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 20, 2016
Springfield, MO – The Izaak Walton League of America is proud to once again sponsor National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHF Day) – a day set aside to promote outdoor sports and the conservation efforts these sports help fund. The League encourages families to reconnect with the outdoors at NHF Day events across the country on September 24.
Outdoor recreation brings families together and boosts health and well-being. It also boosts the American economy. Hunters and anglers spent $89.8 billion in 2011 (the most recent year for which the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reported data), including $32.2 billion for trip-related expenses and $43.2 billion on equipment – all of which benefits small communities and businesses across America.
In addition, American sportsmen provide the majority of the funding for state fish and wildlife agencies. In fact, up to 75 percent of state agency budgets are funded by hunters, anglers, and shooting sports enthusiasts. These investments provide incredible benefits to all Americans.
The key to continuing these benefits is engaging new audiences – including youth and families – in hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreation. National Hunting and Fishing Day provides a great opportunity for people interested in trying a new outdoor sport to get their feet wet!
“The Izaak Walton League is proud to sponsor National Hunting and Fishing Day,” said Scott Kovarovics, Executive Director of the Izaak Walton League. “Many of the League’s 240 chapters will host NHF Day events to introduce youth and families to hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities. These events help Americans understand the essential role hunters and anglers play in supporting – and funding – conservation and outdoor recreation opportunities nationwide.”
Visit www.facebook.com/nhfday for information about events across the country as well as a comprehensive overview of NHF Day, sponsor information, and event planning details.
“NHF Day is an important day to thank the people who helped make our natural resources great,” said Misty Mitchell, Director of Conservation for the Wonders of Wildlife. “We appreciate the Izaak Walton League’s continued support of NHF Day and conservation.” Other National Hunting and Fishing Day sponsors include Bass Pro Shops, NSSF, NRA, Yamaha, Realtree, Ducks Unlimited, NWTF, and the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation.
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