July 1, 2013

Arizona Game and Fish works with local groups to invest in next generation of sportsmen

Local sportsmen's groups can apply now for grant funding for programs that promote activities and events for hunter, angler, shooter and trapper recruitment and retention. The Arizona Game and Fish Department is offering $75,000 in grant funding this year. Applications must be received by the department by 5 p.m. (MST) on Monday, Aug. 12, 2013.

Examples of projects eligible for the Arizona Game and Fish Department grants include:

Hands-on mentored hunting events
Small game hunting camps - quail, squirrel, rabbit
Migratory bird hunts - dove, duck, and geese
Predator hunts - coyote, fox and bobcat
Big game hunts - javelina, turkey, deer and elk Bowhunting - small and big game
Trapping and fur harvesting
Fishing events and camps
Marketing and educational outreach projects
promoting hunter, angler, shooter and trapper
(HAST) recruitment and retention, the North American Model, the Arizona Game and Fish Department, and activities highlighting the next steps for newcomers to the shooting sports, hunting, fishing and trapping.

"The Local Sportsmen's Group Grant is perfect for organizations that are looking to start up or expand introductory programs in their communities, but lack the funding they need to make it happen," said Doug Burt, hunting and shooting sports program manager. "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. Projects funded by the grant must be open to the public and conducted in Arizona. Multiple grant awards may be made. To be eligible, applicants should:

Be local, Arizona-based, or an Arizona-chapter sportsmen's/outdoor development organization with a focus on hunting, fishing, shooting or trapping; Propose a project that fits the eligibility criteria; and
Complete the project before June 30, 2014.

"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," Burt said. "Local sportsmen's organizations offer a perfect solution because they can give future hunters and anglers the kind of introduction they need."

To apply for a grant, download an application packet from www.azgfd.gov/i_e/local_sportsmens.shtml. Packets are also available upon request from Grant Coordinator Robyn Beck at (623) 236-7530. The deadline to submit applications for Local Sportsmen's Group Grants is 5 p.m. (MST) on Monday, Aug. 12, 2013. Applications can be submitted by email to RBeck@azgfd.gov or sent by U.S. mail to:

Arizona Game and Fish Department, DOFP
Attn: Robyn Beck
5000 W. Carefree Highway
Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000

Join the fun and participate in activities 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, public-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.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD's programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Director's Office, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Director's Office as listed above.