Sportsmen ’ s Alliance members have great stories to tell that speak to the success of conservation and their efforts to continue the traditions of hunting , trapping and fishing . We ’ re proud to share such stories in these pages , as they demonstrate the commitment of citizen huntervationists . The Sportsmen ’ s Alliance recently caught up with George Utley to hear about his family roots in New York City and how his father piqued his interest in the outdoors . The following is his story . George Utley , a conservationist and avid hunter , has a unique background and entryway into the hunting lifestyle . Contrasting with what one would usually associate with the type , he grew up in New York City , right outside of Manhattan , and still runs a family business in Queens with his brother and a daughter — a business started more than 80 years ago by his father .
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And it was his father who piqued Utley ’ s interest in the outdoors , which has taken him on adventures around the globe that have included multiple generations of his own family . His father always had him outside and involved in activities , despite living in one of the world ’ s largest cities — what Utley casually described as “ limited resources , not a lot of hunting opportunities .” His father was passionate in sharing his interests in the shooting sports , hunting and outdoor skills with his family . This led to the family getting involved in Camp Fire Club of America ( CFCA ).
The club , right outside of Manhattan , is comprised of several hundred acres with family cabins , shooting ranges , lakes for fishing and more . Founded in 1897 , CFCA has a deep history rooted in conservation and hunting and sought to bring together hunters , anglers , explorers , naturalists , artists and individuals who subscribe to the principles of
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adventure and fellowship in the great outdoors , and to further the interests of sports afield and wildlife conservation . Notable hunter-conservationist members include Theodore Roosevelt , Gifford Pinchot , George Dupont Pratt , Buffalo Bill Cody , David Abercrombie , George Dupont Pratt and Zane Grey . The club ’ s official newsletter would go on to become the venerable Field & Stream magazine .
This is where a young Utley found his outdoor passion , participating in club competitions , which included fire starting , shooting , portaging , hunting simulations and more . Having participated in the various competitions for years , Utley can be given an axe , cedar log , flapjack batter and a pan , and have your breakfast ready for you in 2 minutes and 27 seconds !
The story of his evolution continued as Utley transferred his skills honed in the CFCA to other outdoor experiences . “ Once I had the opportunity , I tried to go on as many hunts as possible ,” he said .
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COURTESY OF GEORGE UTLEY ( 5 ) |