The gathering included participation from the NWTF and other conservation and sportsmen’s groups such as the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, California Waterfowl Association, California Rifle and Pistol Association and the National Rifle Association. The event provided a unique opportunity for senators, assembly members and their assistants to engage in hands-on activities and gain a firsthand perspective on the safe use of firearms.
Senator Bill Dodd kicked off the evening with a welcome introduction, setting the stage for a night of learning and fellowship. Participants, many of whom were first-time shooters, received instruction from a local high school trap and skeet team. Additionally, archery instruction was available, giving attendees a chance to experience a variety of outdoor sporting activities.
Safety was paramount throughout the event, with California Department of Fish and Wildlife officers present on the range to enforce all safety guidelines and provide a secure environment for all participants. This emphasis on safety allowed those unfamiliar with firearms to learn in a controlled and supportive setting.
The primary goal of the event was to demonstrate that firearms can be used responsibly and safely, countering the often negative perception associated with guns. Modeled on the federal Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, the California Legislative Outdoor Sporting Caucus is dedicated to educating state legislators and decision-makers about the value of outdoor sporting activities.
The event also served as an important forum for educating legislators about the significant social and economic contributions made by California's 1.8 million hunters and anglers. The Caucus aims to protect and enhance the state's wildlife habitats and promote the understanding and acceptance of outdoor activities.
By providing a bipartisan voice for outdoor sporting issues within the State Legislature, the Caucus works to ensure that the rich traditions of hunting, fishing and shooting sports continue to thrive in California. These activities not only contribute to wildlife conservation efforts but also play a vital role in the state's cultural and economic fabric.
"I believe this event was crucial for demonstrating the safe handling of firearms," said Krista Modlin, NWTF district biologist in California, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. "It helps dispel the misconception that firearms are inherently linked to violence and is an excellent step in educating policymakers."
About the National Wild Turkey Federation
Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation and has positively impacted over 23 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The NWTF has also invested over $9 million into wild turkey research to guide the management of the wild turkey population and to ensure sustainable populations into perpetuity. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale through its Four Shared Values: clean and abundant water, healthy forests and wildlife habitat, resilient communities, and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF continues its work to provide Healthy Habitats. and Healthy Harvests. for future generations.
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