New Hunting License Sales Reach 34,000

APPRENTICE PROGRAMS SHOW PROMISE . . . The sale of apprentice hunting licenses in six states brought nearly 34,000 new hunters safely afield in 2006, an acknowledgement of industry and sportsmen’s efforts to establish new opportunities for novice hunters. Florida, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi and Ohio began offering the new licenses last year to youths and other newcomers with the guidance and support of NSSF, the National Wild Turkey Federation and U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance. “To see 34,000 new hunters take advantage of new opportunities in their states is encouraging news for everyone in the hunting and shooting sports community,” said Chris Dolnack, NSSF senior vice president. “It goes to show that when given more opportunities, hunters are very willing to utilize them. In the years to come, these new licenses have the potential to make a significant impact on the future of hunting and conservation in America.” According to industry estimates, if these new hunters choose to stick with their new outdoor pursuits they will spend more than $10 million in the coming year on hunting-related equipment and more than $550 million over their lifetimes. With the support of the Families Afield initiative, 12 states have now adopted laws that provide youths and other newcomers more opportunities to go afield with family members, friends and mentors.

The Second Amendment IS Homeland Security !