2 ) Virtual events might be generating greater behavioral changes in the field . R3 events have little effect on people ’ s likelihood of purchasing a license , regardless of format . Less than 10 % of virtual and in-person event attendees reported buying additional licenses and permits because of attending an event . However , about two-thirds report having greater skills and confidence due to either approach , meaning education events likely assist states ’ retention goals , with some respondents reporting higher rates of active engagement afield following the event .
Effects on hunting / fishing behavior after attending an in-person or virtual event .
I feel more confident or prepared while hunting / fishing I feel I have more skills now while hunting / fishing
I already hunt / fish and the course didn ’ t change my behavior I hunted / fished more than I normally would
I bought a hunting / fishing license that I otherwise wouldn ’ t have bought 0 % 10 % 20 % 30 % 40 %
Virtual In-Person
Please interpret these results with care as virtual attendees were also more likely to be experienced recreationists who already planned to hunt or fish after the event . In addition , among the states examined , more people took virtual events . Even though in-person events have a slightly higher rate of affecting behavior , more people are reached by virtual events likely resulting in greater activity and license sales .