Realtree, the outdoor industry mainstay and longtime supporter of National Hunting and Fishing Day, has announced its 2009 renewal of sponsorship for the annual celebration of hunting, fishing and conservation.
NHF Day is set for September 26, 2009.
"Every person at Realtree understands the importance of supporting and defending our hunting heritage," said Realtree President and CEO Bill Jordan. "National Hunting and Fishing Day is one of our key partners in this effort, and we truly appreciate the year-round work to support not only National Hunting and Fishing Day, but every day as a great day to enjoy hunting and fishing."
Realtree's sponsorship supports Wonders of Wildlife museum in Springfield, Mo., the official home of National Hunting and Fishing Day. The museum directs programs to build public appreciation for the connections between hunting, angling and conservation. Event planning tools and promotional items, PSAs, communications initiatives and more are in the works.
"Our goal is to grow awareness and pride in NHF Day, but also to deliver the NHF Day message throughout the year," said Denise Wagner of Wonders of Wildlife.
Congress formalized National Hunting and Fishing Day in 1972 to recognize hunters and anglers for their leadership in conservation. Through licenses, permits and special taxes, these outdoor sportsmen and women generate $100,000 every 30 minutes-totaling more than $1.75 billion per year-for fish, wildlife and habitat.
Every U.S. President from Richard M. Nixon to George W. Bush, as well as numerous governors and mayors, have issued formal proclamations commemorating the day.
Rising country music star Luke Bryan is the honorary chairman for NHF Day 2009.
The growing list of sponsors for National Hunting and Fishing Day includes Wonders of Wildlife, National Shooting Sports Foundation, Bass Pro Shops, The Sportsman Channel, Realtree, GunBroker.com, Hunting Heritage Trust, Cabela's, Boone and Crockett Club, Smith & Wesson, Field & Stream/Outdoor Life, Woolrich and Yamaha.
For more information, visit www.nhfday.org .