June 15, 2011

NSSF Contributes Grant to Supplement NAWCA

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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 part of an NSSF five-year initiative that will total $750,000 to support wetlands conservation.

“The firearms and ammunition industries are America’s foremost champions of wildlife conservation,” said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF senior vice president and general counsel. “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 and ammunition industries continue to build upon their unprecedented commitment to the conservation of our nation’s wildlife and its habitat.” said Rowan Gould, Acting Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

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