National Hunting and Fishing Day observed Saturday

National Hunting and Fishing Day observed Saturday

POSTED 09/26/2008 - The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) appreciates the value of hunters and anglers to Florida’s conservation efforts and to the economy. This Saturday, on National Hunting and Fishing Day, the public will have the chance to recognize this contribution.

"Sportsmen helped start the conservation movement," said Ken Haddad, executive director of the FWC. "This day gives us the opportunity to focus on the importance of conservation and to recognize the vital role hunters and anglers play in conservation efforts."

Throughout the year, the FWC sponsors events that encourage outdoors activities such as hunting and fishing. They also promote youth involvement in these sports.

More than 3 million Florida residents and visitors enjoy the benefits of fishing and hunting. Sportsmen bring more than $8.2 billion to the state each year and support 85,000 jobs, according to the "2006 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation." In addition, fees paid for licenses for hunting and fishing directly support conservation programs, Haddad said.

National Hunting and Fishing Day was established by Congress in 1972 to recognize generations of hunters and anglers for the time and money they have donated to wildlife conservation programs.