Hunting and Fishing News Blog Articles

Columbia, MO – MidwayUSA Foundation is proud to continue a partnership with Vortex Optics. This Midwest-based company is another industry leader that is stepping up to invest in the future of the outdoor industry. Much of today’s youth that are involved in shooting sports often continue other outdoor activities, most of which they can do for years and years to come. MidwayUSA Foundation Relationship Manager, John Linquist said, “With the support of the industry, we are continuing to make strides in helping more high school and college kids become part of a shooting team and not have to worry about the cost to participate.” 

Thousands of youth shooting teams across the country have MidwayUSA Foundation endowments that are earmarked specifically for their team to grow through donations and fundraisers. To assist in fundraising, participating teams are offered product grants.  Quality products, like Vortex Optics binoculars and rangefinders, are provided at no cost to allow teams to conduct a local community fundraiser.  Proceeds generated from these product grant fundraisers are split between the team’s local immediate needs and their team endowment at the MidwayUSA Foundation. Contributions are also matched through MidwayUSA Foundation’s current Matching Program, which is funded by Larry and Brenda Potterfield, owners of MidwayUSA.

Vortex Optics representative, Jake Raffel, talked about the sponsorship. “Providing the highest level of customer service and exceeding customer expectations is truly the core of Vortex Optics. MidwayUSA Foundation has proven to be an invaluable partner in helping us translate this value to the youth shooting sports world.” All of the Vortex products are designed, engineered, pre-inspected, and serviced in a modern facility to ensure customers receive the best products and services for their hard-earned dollar. Additional business leaders interested in supporting the future of the industry are encouraged to contact John Linquist, MidwayUSA Foundation Relationship Manager, by email [email protected] or phone 573-219-7688.

About Vortex Optics: Since 1986 we have been and remain an American owned, Veteran owned, Family owned and operated business of hard-working folks located here in south-central Wisconsin. Dan and Margie Hamilton, the original and current owners, moved to Middleton, WI, in 1986 and started a small outdoor retail store. The business was started on the belief that if you focused on the customers and helped them achieve their goals with fast, friendly, personalized service that the bottom line would take care of itself. The business grew and evolved over time, and in 2002 Vortex Optics was established. Starting with Dan and Margie and now over 200 American team members strong, we work diligently day in and day out to give you the best products and services in the optics industry.

The MidwayUSA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity working to sustain and grow the shooting sports industry by providing long-term funding to youth shooting teams through annual cash grants. Every donation made is tax-deductible and allows the Foundation to assist in expanding and enhancing the leadership skills, confidence, and discipline of today’s youth through shooting sports activities. The Foundation supports all shooting disciplines. For more information about how the MidwayUSA Foundation is changing the future of youth shooting sports, please visit midwayusafoundation.org or call 1-877-375-4570.

Speaking exclusively to Angling International, Kenni Riise (below), CEO of the iconic Norwegian company, says that the acquisition of the Canadian business proves that Mustad is ‘serious’ in its growth ambitions and the addition strengthens its stance within the sportfishing industry.“Mustad has been on the look-out for strong brands with high potential to expand the selection of different quality brands and products in each product group within the trade. We feel that LIVETARGET meets these expectations and more and will support our ambition of becoming a multi-brand powerhouse.

“Not only does LIVETARGET offer premium baits for both fresh and saltwater, it is led by passionate anglers with direction and experience that aligns with our goals and core values. The team there has proved to possess a lot of experience within our focus markets and will be a key asset in our innovation and development processes.”

LIVETARGET joins a group that includes line brand TUF-Line, which joined the Mustad stable in June 2019. Riise says: “We have ambitious and financially strong owners driving us to continuously be on the search for the right brands and people to support our growth strategy and journey of the company.

“We value strong brands with high growth potential that can support the execution of our strategy either by adding new categories, distribution or innovation competences.”

Riise added that, due to the pandemic, all negotiations with LIVETARGET were carried out via online meetings except the last one when the two parties met at Mustad’s facility in the Dominican Republic where representatives of each party were able to travel from Canada and Norway without restrictions to complete the deal.

Our Trees are in Select Walmart Locations!

Final Round to Select Walmart Southern States Locations

Expected arrival to select stores between October 23rd – October 27th to the following states:

*The link below includes all Fall 2021 shipment information.

*The exact time of delivery to each location is our best estimation because we use contract trucks and are not provided with delivery information.

The “Clean Drain Dry” initiative educates anglers and boaters on how to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species

The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) and Wildlife Forever have entered into a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to address the spread of aquatic invasive species. Working through Wildlife Forever’s nationwide “Clean Drain Dry” initiative, the two organizations will partner to coordinate outreach and education efforts with leaders in the recreational fishing industry to help stop invasive species which are having a devastating impact on our nation’s freshwater species.

“Since 1933, ASA has been a leader in fisheries conservation. Working with the national Clean Drain Dry Initiative reaffirms our commitment to both the resource and our members by integrating programs that educate our customers. Together, we’re safeguarding our fisheries for future generations,” said Glenn Hughes, president of American Sportfishing Association.

Since 2006, Wildlife Forever’s Clean Drain Dry Initiative has worked to educate anglers and boaters on best practices to halt the spread of invasive species. Beyond its communications campaigns, the Clean Drain Dry Initiative is installing decontamination stations at dozens of boat launches annually.

“I’m proud that ASA joined the movement by taking an active role in invasive species prevention. Our partnership will leverage marketing and communication tools that empower best conservation practices to educate anglers, protecting the sport and the resource,” said Pat Conzemius, president and CEO of Wildlife Forever.

EDGEFIELD, S.C.—The Wisconsin State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation recently met to review Hunting Heritage Super Fund project proposals for 2022 funding.

After reviewing and ranking proposals, the NWTF Wisconsin Board of Directors approved allocating a total of $96,066 to NWTF’s Save the Habitat. Save the Hunt. initiative.

The state board budgeted $50,000 for conservation projects and $46,066 for Hunting Heritage related projects, including outreach-education events, chapter scholarships and 4-H shooting sports program support.

Super Fund projects will be matched with almost $785,000 in partner or grant funds for the approved projects, representing a 19-to-1 match rate in Wisconsin for 2022 Super Fund project allocations.

Save the Hunt.

MISSOULA, Mont. – Following notice from the White House that Martha Williams has been nominated as director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers President and CEO Land Tawney offered this response:

“A more knowledgeable, smart and dedicated leader for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service would be hard to find,” said Tawney. “Martha Williams has spent a career advancing responsive, science-based management of our natural resources and as an advocate for fish, wildlife and our outdoor traditions. We wholeheartedly support her nomination and look forward to her swift confirmation.

“As a fellow Montanan, I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside Martha in support of our fish and wildlife populations and enhancing access to our public lands and waters,” Tawney continued. “She’s a hunter and angler who understands our community’s values, and I’m confident she’ll bring them to infuse her work in Washington, D.C. We’re fortunate to have her there working on our behalf.”

Williams currently serves as the principal deputy director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. She previously was director of the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks and was an assistant professor of law at the University of Montana, where she co-directed the university’s Land Use and Natural Resources Clinic. She also has worked at the Interior Department in the past, serving as deputy solicitor, parks and wildlife.

Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the voice
for our wild public lands, waters and wildlife.

It is our honor to introduce Hunting Life Magazine.

Columbia, MO -MidwayUSA is excited to announce the release of “A Pair of Holland 410s,” a short story by Larry Potterfield, Founder and Chairman of the Board.

“Some of my fondest memories are the hunting and fishing stories Dad and my uncles shared with us kids back then – generally around the wood stove, and other times in the field,” said Larry Potterfield, Founder and Chairman of the Board of MidwayUSA. “Unfortunately, it was pure and simple storytelling, so all I have are the memories. Now, as a father and grandfather and having hunted and fished all my life, I am taking the time to write down some of my own stories – for the enjoyment of my children, grandchildren, friends and Customers. These are all real stories that I participated in, nothing is made up; and I write them purely for your enjoyment.”

Read “A Pair of Holland 410s”: https://www.midwayusa.com/larrys-short-stories/a-pair-of-holland-410s/279

To read the rest of Larry’s Short Stories, please visit https://www.midwayusa.com/larrys-short-stories

Own the complete collection of Larry’s Short Stories in a beautifully printed hard cover book.  Volume 1 and Volume 2 available – CLICK HERE

Gamakatsu’s new series of extra wide-mouth tackle bags come in various sizes so anglers can take everything they need and nothing they don’t. The G-Bag EWM storage solutions open wide, giving anglers fast, easy access to tackle so anglers can rig up in a hurry and take advantage of a changing bite. 

The smallest bag in the new series, the G-Bag EWM 100, is the perfect size for holding a variety of soft plastic packs. The Extra Wide Mouth (EWM) provides easy access to the interior, and the internal wire frame keeps the top open while finding the right bait. The 8 x 4 x 6-inch size stows easily in other bags, and anglers can take as many as needed while remaining organized. Pick up a few and keep all smaller items organized and ready.

The larger 9.5 x 5 x 7-inch size of the G-Bag EWM 200 Tackle Bag stows more gear using the same innovative easy-access stay-open top. The 200 easily accommodates magnum packs of soft plastics and oversized bulk bags, so that anglers can stash their largest swimbaits or enough tubes for the season in one convenient location. In addition, there’s enough space to store a wide variety of tackle and gear, so anglers can keep rigging tools and other essentials handy as well. 

Stuff up to four Gamakatsu G-Box 3600 or eight 3200 utility cases into the G-Bag EWM 300 using the innovative Extra Wide Mouth opening. The biggest size in the lineup is designed to carry a variety of tackle comfortably, thanks to the adjustable, padded removable shoulder strap. The generous 13 x 8.5 x 11-inch bag lets anglers stockpile all of their finesse baits and power fishing lures in the same place so they can be prepared for anything.

All of the bags in the G-Bag EWM series feature water-resistant TPU construction that sheds water from rainstorms or the occasional rogue wave, so contents stay protected. Plus, a see-through I.D. tag window on the 100 and 200 size, allows anglers to slide in their customized labels for easy identification, so they grab the right bags for each trip. Anglers will always find the contents easily, courtesy of the Extra Wide Mouth and stay-open design.

Gamakatsu® is giving anglers the perfect tackle bag to store utility boxes and other assorted tackle with the introduction of the G-Bag EWM 5000 H Tackle Bag. The new tackle storage bag is the ideal size for a full day on the water, letting anglers bring along enough tackle to cover whatever conditions they might encounter.

Gamakatsu’s new G-Bag EWM 5000 H Tackle Bag has an Extra Wide Mouth (EWM) opening for easy access, letting anglers stuff up to five Gamakatsu G-Box 3700 or eight 3600 utility cases inside. An internal wire frame keeps the main compartment in the open position, so anglers can sort through their tackle and find that perfect bait with ease. A quick-access magnetic front pocket flap also stays in an open position, letting anglers effortlessly grab often needed items from the handy pocket. 

Four internal mesh slip pockets located in the main compartment make organizing small accessories simple, keeping them right where anglers need them. Two zippered mesh pockets and a large, zippered pocket on the inside of the front pouch provide even faster access to small items. A large, rubberized mesh rear storage compartment offers the perfect spot to stash spools of leader material or larger tackle items.

The durable, 1680 denier polyester construction stands up to a rough life on the water, with a water- and slip-resistant EVA molded base that protects the contents against moisture. The adjustable, padded removable shoulder strap connects to the bag via a durable metal G-hook shoulder strap attachment, allowing anglers to have the sturdiness needed all while keeping the premium look. Finishing out the premium look, Gamakatsu provides the final touches by adding a custom metal logo. 

The new G-Bag EWM 5000 H Tackle Bag lets anglers carry everything needed to fish a variety of methods without weighing you down. Load one up and be prepared for anything the next time you hit the lake.

Stop fumbling with keys; there is better, faster safe access technology. It’s called RFID, and it provides instant access to the safe’s contents with tags uniquely programmed for each safe. Every Hornady Security RAPiD® Safe includes this reliable high-tech system. 

An RFID tag acts as the ‘key’ unlocking the safe. When the tag and the safe are close enough to communicate, it reads the unique access code electronically. There’s no need to find a key, register a fingerprint, or remember a combination using touchless RFID technology. Plus, the RFID-enabled device can be programmed to read up to five different tags, opening a world of customization options. 

Hornady Security RFID tags include watchbands (located in the buckle), key fobs, and decals; none require batteries to operate. The decals adhere to plastic, glass, metal, wood — nearly any surface such as the back of a phone. RFID is a secure and reliable way to access a safe in a hurry; however, if the tag is not close at hand, RAPiD safes include a keypad as a secondary opening method. Each RAPiD safe also comes with two barrel keys for the ultimate lock-out prevention. 

With so many benefits, choosing a RAPiD safe with RFID technology is the clear winner for rapid, reliable access to firearms and other valuables. This technology is built into all Hornady Security RAPiD Safe models. 

RFID-Enabled RAPiD Safe Features: 

Z-Man’s Carter Andrews reveals radical soft plastics patterns across the planet

One earmark of a world-class angler: The ability to recognize and tap into obscure fishing opportunities overlooked by others. Call them lure loopholes (glitches in the matrix). Or, the smart adaptation of one bait into a new or un-thought-of situation, all in the name of fooling fish with something they won’t recognize as unnatural; something they’re likely to bite with pure aggression. 

When you’ve circumnavigated the blue planet in search of the most legendary big fish bites available, your ability to recognize and exploit these opportunities increases on exponential scales. That’s just one way to describe angling explorer Big Boy Carter Andrews. Now into his eighth season of the popular show, The Obsession of Carter Andrews, the world travelled angler recently took the time to share a few of his most astonishing saltwater bites.

Imagine catching thirteen cobia on one bait,” poses Andrews, referring to a recent outing off the Atlantic Coast. “Cobia are notorious for tearing up everything they touch, crushing, breaking and bending all lures, including plugs and soft plastics. So, when I say I caught thirteen cobia on one bait, you understand how crazy that sounds, even now, given we’re talking about a single 7-inch “Houdini” pattern DieZel MinnowZ on an 10/0 jighead.”

Several years back, having picked up on scuttlebutt from captains and local anglers about the merits of a distinctive soft plastic material known as ElaZtech, Andrews began experimenting with some of the baits for himself. “Right off, these baits exceeded my expectations,” recalls Andrews. “Just incredibly resilient, durable. But somehow, ultra-soft, buoyant and super lively on the hook, all at the same time. For a softbait, that sounds like an almost impossible combination.”

Henry Repeating Arms, one of the country’s leading firearms manufacturers, is donating a series of 65 custom rifles to raise funds for the family of 11-year-old Sami Bernadzikowski of Elkridge, Maryland, who is battling multiple congenital heart defects (CHD). All proceeds from the fundraising campaign, which are expected to surpass $45,000, will be presented to the Bernadzikowski family.

Since she was born, Sami has undergone five open-heart surgeries with at least one more to come later and over thirty cardiac catheterization procedures. On top of a rare condition called heterotaxy syndrome, where organs are formed abnormally, in the wrong place, or missing altogether, Sami is diagnosed with several CHDs, including single ventricle, pulmonary atresia, pulmonary vein stenosis, transposition of the great vessels, and atrial septal defect. In addition, the 6th grader’s treatments require a visit to Boston several times throughout the year, adding to the overall cost of her medical expenses.

“She has been poked, prodded, and cut by doctors her whole life,” says James McVay, a family friend that brought Sami’s case to the attention of Henry Repeating Arms. “Her normal life is what anyone else would call torture, and she takes it in stride with the rarest complaint.”

“I have yet to see a photo of Sami where she didn’t have a huge smile on her face, which is incredible once you learn what she’s going through,” says Anthony Imperato, CEO, and Founder of Henry Repeating Arms. He continues, “I would like to give a big hug to Sami and her family, and I look forward to seeing how fast these rifles sell out thanks to the generosity of the Henry family.”

Over the last two years, Henry’s Guns For Great Causes campaigns have raised over $200,000 for five families, and all of the rifles sold out within a matter of hours after the initial announcements.

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. (NYSE: RGR) is pleased to announce that Team Ruger Captain Doug Koenig took first place in the Production Division at the Kestrel Fall Classic PRS Bolt Gun Series match held in Baker, FL this past weekend. Koenig finished with a score of 137.00 competing with his stock Custom Shop Ruger Precision® Rifle chambered in 6mm Creedmoor.

The match consisted of 18 challenging stages occurring over two days in varying weather conditions that forced each competitor to maintain focus while engaging targets laid out at various distances.

“With temperatures ranging from 46-80 degrees, I was grateful for the peace of mind my equipment provided in those ever-changing conditions,” said Koenig. “My Custom Shop Precision Rifle stayed consistent the entire match, giving me another PRS Production title.”

Team member Beth Walker also claimed Second High Lady at the Memorial 3-Gun Championship held in Maxton, NC competing with her AR-556® MPR. Walker finished with a score of 526.37.

The press release can be accessed through the link below:

There is no question that Vincent Hancock loves the biggest stage when it comes to International Men’s Skeet competition.  Since winning his first World Championship at the age of 16 in 2005, Hancock has been nearly unbeatable, and he proved that again at the Tokyo Olympics becoming the only male to win three Olympic gold medals in Men’s Skeet.  On this episode of “It’s Federal Season” podcast, the Florida native and now Texas resident walks listeners through the competition, the low and high points, and reveals whether you’ll see him chase an unprecedented fourth Olympic title in Paris, France. 

Episode #27 “3-Timer”

https://www.federalpremium.com/this-is-federal/podcast/

“Federal is a proud sponsor of the 3-time Olympic champion Vincent Hancock,” stated Jason Nash, Federal Ammunition’s Vice President of Marketing. “If you’re a fan of sports, this is a podcast for you.  Not only does he talk about the significance of making history, but Hancock paints a great picture of the venue, the emotions of nearly being out after qualifications, and what it took to rise above some adversity,” stated Nash.    

In the Tech Talk segment, shotshell product line manager Dan Compton reveals more information about Federal’s new High Over All competition shotshell and the features and benefits of this game changer for trap, skeet, and sporting clay enthusiasts.  In the news and notes segment, Federal is excited to sponsor Thursday nights on Outdoor Channel as Federal Premium’s Terminal Ascent proudly presents the programming for hunters and shooters looking for aspirational and educational content.

Michigan United Conservation Clubs, National Wildlife Federation debut new film on Michigan Out-of-Doors TV

Michigan United Conservation Clubs and the National Wildlife Federation have released a new short film on the impacts of climate change to hunting and fishing in Michigan. Changing Seasons  features the observations of hunters and anglers and real-world recommendations from biologists and conservation organizations on both policy solutions and how hunters and anglers can mitigate the impacts of climate change to fish and wildlife. The film is a companion to the report of the same name released by the organizations earlier this year.

Michigan’s outdoor traditions and economy are at risk due to the impacts of a changing climate on the landscape, said MUCC Executive Director Amy Trotter.

“Michigan hunters and anglers contribute $11.2 billion to the state’s economy annually, supporting communities and jobs throughout,” said Trotter. “Hunters, anglers and trappers must be at the table with decision-makers to mitigate impacts like warming trout streams, northward regression of habitat and frequent blow days on the Great Lakes to protect our environmental, recreational and economic well-being.”

Changing Seasons details how earlier warming periods and extreme swings from drought to heavy rains can increase the parasitic midges that cause Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) in deer, as it did in the 2012 die-off experienced here in Michigan. Waterfowl migration patterns are being impacted by warming weather later into the winter and habitat could be lost by a reduction in wetlands. Ruffed grouse nesting is impacted by droughts and flooding and warming weather can increase the risk of mosquito-born West Nile Virus.

More than $6.6 million awarded to 37 projects in 17 states to bolster fish and wildlife conservation

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is awarding more than $6.6 million in Tribal Wildlife Grants to federally recognized Native American and Alaska Native Tribes in 17 states to bolster fish and wildlife conservation and key partnerships. The awards will support 37 projects that benefit a wide range of wildlife and habitats, including species of Native American cultural or traditional importance and species that are not hunted or fished.

“Respect for wildlife and their habitats is central to Indigenous communities’ relationships with our natural world. Since time immemorial, Native American and Alaska Native Tribes have engaged in conservation efforts that continue to inform our decision-making today,” said Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland. “This funding opportunity will help support our collaborative conservation efforts with Tribes to restore, conserve, and protect Tribal resources, wildlife habitat, and species – a main pillar of the America the Beautiful initiative.”

The America the Beautiful initiative – the Administration’s goal to conserve, connect, and restore 30 percent of lands, waters, and wildlife by 2030 – calls upon local, state, and federal leaders to honor Tribal sovereignty and support the priorities of Tribal nations when making decisions related to sustainable land management and the conservation of natural, cultural, and historical resources.

Since its inception in 2003, including this year’s 2021 Tribal Wildlife Grants awards, the competitive Tribal Wildlife Grants Program has awarded more than $105.6 million to Native American and Alaska Native Tribes, providing support for 593 conservation projects.

Millennium Marine’s commitment to comfort and quality is evident in all of their product lines, but none more so than their B-100 Boat Seats. 

The B-100 Boat Seats feature Millennium Marine’s ComfortMAX contoured, tight sling seat with breathable, cool fabric that won’t hold the morning dew and dries quickly after a rain shower. ComfortMAX material resists mold, mildew, and UV light to provide years of solid use, and the all-aluminum frame will not rot or rust. No plastic components are used in B-Series seats.

B-100 Boat Seats feature a folding backrest with lumbar support, which folds down flatter than competitors’ seats, allowing better visibility when the boat is underway. Armrest straps are included and help support the seat back when it’s unfolded. With a generous 20” wide by 16.5” deep seat bottom, the B100 provides cool, breathable comfort in gray, green, tan or Mossy Oak® camouflage patterns.

Since Fall of 2020, all B-100s have been pre-drilled to accept the new B-101 Boat Seat Cable accessory. The B-101 Boat Seat Cables allow for additional stability on top of the arm strap. If the anglers want to remove the arm straps, they can do so and still keep their seats stable with the B-101 boat seat cables. If an angler has an older model, these cables come with instructions on adding these onto the seats. The B-101 Boat Seat Cables come in a pack of two.

Every Millennium B-Series boat seat carries a 1-year warranty and features a standard bolt hole pattern to allow them to be mounted on any standard boat seat pedestal.

Remington Ammunition congratulates multiple Team Remington members for securing top finishes at the 2021 World Skeet Championships in San Antonio, Texas. Taylor Nicosia, Houston Deshotels, Alessandro Vitale, Laruen Burge and Sheaffer Stanfill all posted podium finishes during the competition.

“As Team Remington continues to grow, we keep seeing more and more wins and that’s awesome for Big Green,” said Joel Hodgdon, Remington’s Marketing Director. “These shooters are competing at the highest level and continue to prove their skill and dedication. We know more great performances from Remington shooters are on the horizon.”

Alessandro Vitale posted near-perfect scores to clinch both the Mini World HOA and HAA Championship titles. Houston Deshotels took home both the Main World HOA and HAA Championship titles. Taylor Nicosia placed in seven events and earned three Open Awards. She placed first in the Mini World Doubles, second in Lady World 20 Gauge, Lady World 410 and Lady HOA. Nicosia also finished third in Lady World Doubles and Lady World 28 Gauge. Sheaffer Stanfill took third in Mini World 12 Gauge. Team Remington continues to post podium finishes with help from Remington Premier STS loads.

A winning combination of shot-to-shot consistency and reloadability, Remington’s Premier STS® Target Loads are the benchmark for target-crushing performance and a favorite at the reloading bench. STS is part of the full lineup of competition-worthy shotshell offerings from Remington that are being produced and shipped across the country.

To be the first to hear about product availability, exciting new products and everything Remington ammo, visitors to  www.remington.com are encouraged to sign up for Remington’s e-newsletter or follow Remington on social media.

A collaborative effort is underway within the outdoor industry to develop actions for organizations, recreation destinations, and outdoor enthusiasts on how they can take meaningful steps to attract, embrace, and support inclusion. 

Among the initiatives being taken in support of justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion (JEDI/DEI) is development of an educational curriculum on topics such as history of access, marketing and media, recruitment and retention, grants/partnerships, and accountability.

The work, being driven by Together Outdoors, a coalition created within the outdoor industry, also seeks to develop best practices and branding centered around the Together Outdoors logo to show businesses, spaces, and places working on creating safe and welcoming outdoor experiences for all, especially to help increase participation of underrepresented groups in outdoor recreation by creating informed and inclusive organizations and field locations like businesses, campgrounds, marinas and trailheads.

“It is crucial for the outdoor industry to acknowledge the years of labor by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) and other underrepresented communities who have driven the movement to make the outdoors a more just, equitable, diverse, and inclusive space,” said Gerry Seavo James, coalition lead for Together Outdoors. “Empowered by the leadership, passion, and experiences of our newly formed advisory and governance councils, we strive to build upon those efforts within the industry and greater outdoor community.”

The effort also will develop: