Grants Available to Expand Participation in Hunting, Fishing, Shooting Sports and Trapping in Arizona
OutdoorHub 07.26.12
The Arizona Game and Fish Department is offering grant funding for local sportsmen’s groups to promote or facilitate hunter, angler, shooter or trapper recruitment and retention programs through their events and activities.
The department is making $75,000 available this grant cycle. Applications must be received by the department by 5 p.m. (MST) on Monday, Aug. 6, 2012.
Examples of eligible projects include mentored, hands-on hunting camps for big or small game animals; fishing clinics or camps; trapping seminars; and educational outreach promoting hunting, fishing, shooting sports or trapping.
“The Local Sportsmen’s Group Grant is perfect for organizations that are looking to start up or expand their introductory programs for their communities, but are lacking funding needed to make it happen,” said Craig McMullen, the department’s chief of wildlife recreation. “This grant program is an investment in the local organizations that, day-in and day-out, are teaching people how to be safe, ethical, and responsible participants in these important American traditions.”
Funds will be awarded through a competitive application process. Multiple awards may be made. To be eligible, a group must: (1) be a local Arizona-based 501(c)(3) sportsmen’s group with a focus on hunting, fishing, shooting or trapping, (2) propose a project that fits the eligibility criteria, and (3) complete the project before June 30, 2013. Projects funded by the grant must be open to the public.
McMullen added, “There is plenty of public interest in hunting and fishing, but many folks are from families that did not grow up with this type of recreation and need an experienced mentor to show them the way. The local sportsmen’s organizations are the perfect solution.”
To apply, download an application packet from www.azgfd.gov/i_e/local_sportsmens.shtml. Packets can also be obtained by calling Grant Coordinator Robyn Beck at (623) 236-7530. The deadline to submit applications for Local Sportsmen’s Group Grants is Monday, Aug. 6, 2012 by 5 p.m. (MST). Three copies of the application and any supporting documents must be submitted.
For those that are interested in participating in the events funded by the Local Sportsmen’s Group Grant Program, visit www.azgfd.gov/outdoorskills for a complete listing of current events scheduled.
Note: There is no cost to Arizona taxpayers for this grant program. The Arizona Game and Fish Department does not receive any of the state’s general funds, and operates under a user-pay, user-benefit model. The Local Sportsmen’s Group Grant Program is an investment in the continuance of wildlife conservation efforts and outdoor recreation participation in the state of Arizona.
