The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation recently took part in and sponsored the largest gathering of pro-sportsmen legislators, agency staff and outdoor industry representatives at the 18th Annual National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucuses (NASC) Sportsman-Legislator Summit in Little Rock, Arkansas. The multi-day summit provided a venue for state legislators to discuss policy issues and share information relevant to various sportsmen issues.
Hosted by the Congressional Sportsman’s Foundation, of which RMEF is a supporter, the event provides an invaluable opportunity for RMEF to create and cement relationships that benefit its mission.
“While federal land makes up a big part of elk country, it is state legislatures and wildlife commissions that are charged with wildlife management. Engaging with these state policy makers is a critical part of our advocacy strategy, and the Congressional Sportsman’s Foundation provides a bipartisan network of friendly legislators for us to work through,” said Ryan Bronson, RMEF director of government affairs. “NASC provides us the opportunity to develop relationships that carry on when they return to their state capitols around the country.”
The summit’s theme was “Shifting Demographics: Challenges and Opportunities for Advancing our Time-Honored Traditions.” Among the many topics discussed included the 30×30 Global Initiative, politization of hunting, modernizing conservation technology and others.
“Anglers, hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation are avid supporters of wildlife conservation and who also treasure the beauty and serenity of Arkansas,” said Asa Hutchinson, Arkansas governor. “It was an honor to host a celebration for those that understand the need to sustain our beautiful state and have contributed to the protection and improvement of vital habitats for years to come.”
The 2022 NASC will take place in Montana.
(Photo credit: Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation)