Firearms Industry Contributes Second Grant Installment to Supplement NAWCA
National Shooting Sports Foundation 04.17.12
Demonstrating its continued support for conservation, members of the firearms industry, through the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) — the industry’s trade association — have donated $150,000 to supplement congressional funding of the North American Wetland Conservation Act (NAWCA), a grant program providing federal cost-share funding to support the North American Waterfowl Management Plan.
This year’s payment of $150,000 is the second part of an NSSF five-year initiative that will total $750,000 to support wetlands conservation.“The firearms industry is America’s foremost champion of wildlife conservation,” said Steve Sanetti, NSSF president and CEO.
“This donation to migratory bird habitat is just one example of how the National Shooting Sports Foundation and its members are working to preserve, protect and enhance our nation’s strong heritage of wildlife conservation, hunting access and Second Amendment rights. This commitment will serve to the betterment of sportsmen and the game they pursue for generations to come.”
The NSSF grant has taken on increased importance since the interest generated from the taxes collected on sporting arms and ammunition have been decreasing.“In order to ensure the strength and sustainability of our nation’s wetlands, it is imperative that NAWCA be well-funded,” said Dale Hall, chief executive officer, Ducks Unlimited.
“This generous donation from the National Shooting Sports Foundation, and NSSF’s larger commitment to wetland conservation, will go a long way in helping to guarantee that our culture of hunting and fishing is passed down to the next generation.”
“Since 1961, the National Shooting Sports Foundation has been instrumental in ensuring a strong future for tomorrow’s hunters and anglers. This contribution to NAWCA demonstrates how the firearms industry continues to build upon its unprecedented commitment to the conservation of our nation’s wildlife and its habitat,” said Dan Ashe, director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
