The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is celebrating 2014 National Hunting and Fishing Day (NHFD) on Saturday, Sept. 27.
NHFD was established by the U.S. Congress in 1972 and recognizes hunters and anglers for their contributions to wildlife conservation. The NHFD is an event celebrated in all 50 states annually on the fourth Saturday in September.
“It is so significant that a great nation like ours takes the time to pause and recognize two activities that are steeped in our nation’s heritage,” said Ed Carter, TWRA Executive Director. “For those who participate, it is not only a great recreational venue which generates the lion’s share of funding for the management of all wildlife but also generates billions of dollars in economic return. For those who don’t participate, it is fitting that we all join together to take a moment and reflect on how the North American Wildlife Conservation Model has enhanced all our lives.”
Together with federal aid programs, wildlife conservation efforts are funded mainly by the money sportsmen and women spend on their license fees, as well as the taxes they pay on certain types of outdoor recreational equipment that includes firearms, ammunition, and fishing gear. These funds support conservation programs, habitat acquisitions, and outdoor recreation opportunities in Tennessee and throughout the nation.
For the second straight year, a Tennessee resident has been selected to the prestigious honor of serving as NFHD honorary chairman. Country music entertainer, award winning television host and former solider Craig Morgan will serve in the role this year. The Dickson County resident follows fisherman and television host Bill Dance who was last year’s honorary chairman. They joined the list of former honorary chairmen from the entertainment, sports, and political ranks.