The Sportsmen's Advocate Summer 2022 | Page 43

these same opportunities , I now know this is simply not true . This lifestyle is so amazing and fulfilling , yet constantly under attack . That ’ s where Sportsmen ’ s Alliance comes in . I now realize the need to protect and promote our outdoor heritage . As sportsmen , so many of us are busy living our day-to-day lives , hunting and enjoying the outdoors on the weekends , that we don ’ t realize all the battles fought on our behalf every single day .
There are so many organizations out there that look out for a specific species — Pheasants Forever , Ducks Unlimited , National Deer Association , Mule Deer Foundation — all amazing organizations . But , the Sportsmen ’ s Alliance constantly looks out for us hunters . They have a government affairs team that includes experienced lobbyists , lawyers and campaign specialists who are on the front lines protecting what we all love .

As sportsmen , so many of us are busy living our day-to-day lives , hunting and enjoying the outdoors on the weekends , that we don ’ t realize all the battles fought on our behalf every single day .

Sportsmen ’ s Alliance does an incredible job of keeping hunters updated on the things that matter . For example , they recently have been fighting on our behalf regarding a privacy loophole in Minnesota where hunters ’ information is being demanded by the anti-hunting community . Unfortunately , these hunters have been getting harassed and it was the government pushing them to release their private information . As a Minnesota native , I know all too well about the nasty emails , texts and phone calls from extremists that do not understand our lifestyle . I can deal with it , but your average hunters and their families should never have to experience this kind of stuff . Again , Sportsmen ’ s
Alliance was right there letting people know how they can help , reaching out to lawmakers and making a difference .
I ’ ve been a member for as long as I can remember , and it ’ s not just because they fight for our rights , but they are constantly trying to keep our passion alive through youth programs and advocacy . For example , the Trailblazer Adventure program introduced almost 2 million families to the outdoors since 2001 . Their Families Afield project , which you might know by apprentice or mentored hunting licenses , has made it easier for parents to get their children started in hunting — and not just children , but adults , too . Now their Conservation Science curriculum has given nearly 2,000 high school kids a hands-on education in wildlife management in just its first year !
My love for hunting will never change , but the mission of my show has definitely shifted to get more people involved and showcase the fun of the outdoors and all the benefits it can bring to a family . This is exactly the same mission the Sportsmen ’ s Alliance believes in , and I am a proud member . Anything we can do as hunters to ensure our outdoor heritage is protected for generations to come is worth the battle , and Sportsmen ’ s Alliance is right there on the front lines for us all .
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