Often times local, state, or federal government agencies or departments pose an immediate threat to hunting, trapping and fishing opportunities that you enjoy. Only government has the power to restrict or prohibit hunting and other outdoor sports. Anti-hunting and anti-fishing organizations are constantly pressuring legislators in hopes that they will respond and restrict or eliminate your hunting, fishing and trapping opportunities. You have a duty to speak up for hunting, fishing and to educate your legislators with the truth about outdoor sports. Decisions can be influenced from the grassroots level.
You can build a grassroots coalition, or help one grow, in your area with little effort. Motivated individuals can have the most influence on the legislative process. When working to defend your outdoor heritage, it’s a great idea to muster the grassroots support for—or opposition to—an issue or proposed legislation. This ensures that the decision makers realize the proposal is important to many voters. There’s strength in numbers of sportsmen, trappers or anglers speaking for—or against—issues.
A best-method to accomplish this is to join at least one club or organization that monitors legislative issues at the local, state and national levels. Often times local sportsmen’s clubs or gun range members share your viewpoints—and will want to help you. Sportsmen should also be active with state wildlife agencies and the personnel who work there, plus work to earn the support of local farmers, ranchers, lawyers, sporting goods dealers, and public health officials. Invite these persons to your club events, cookouts, or range days, and get to know them on a personal level—and let them put member’s names and faces with their interests.
Follow up meetings with letters, phone calls and by attending hearings that those agencies or legislators could be involved in. The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance encourages you to take action and let your opinions be heard as you speak on behalf of the millions of sportsmen and sportswomen in the United States.