USA’s Conservation Focus

In an age of computers, cell phone, video games and other devices, today’s youth are losing their connection to the outdoors and America’s hunting and fishing heritage. While part of that is due to technological advancements, dwindling public access has also played a significant role.

Active participation in hunting and fishing as an adult is directly related to active participation as a youth. When adults give up the sports due to lack of access, they’re much less likely to pass those traditions on to their children.

Why is the declining number of hunters and anglers such a big deal?

Through a 10-12% excise tax, hunters and anglers generate billions of dollars toward fish and wildlife habitat. With no alternative funding system for conservation in place, the loss of hunting and fishing in America would be devastating to maintaining habitat critical for healthy fish and game.

With more than six million AFL-CIO union sportsmen and sportswomen across North America, we believe there’s no better group to unite for the cause.

That’s why the USA formed Work Boots on the Ground.

Together, we will confront the challenges facing our outdoor sporting heritage and reconnect future generations with the age old pastimes of hunting & fishing and a connection to the outdoors.

In 2010, the USA launched Work Boots on the Ground, it’s flagship conservation program that brings together union members willing to volunteer their time and trade skills to conservation projects that do the following:

• improve and enhance public access to the outdoors
• conserve wildlife habitats
• restore America’s cherished parks
• mentor and engage youth in the oudoors

USA’s Work Boots on the Ground program works closely with federal, state and local agencies and other conservation groups to provide manpower needed to complete critical projects that may otherwise go undone.

Half the net revenue from USA conservation dinners stay within the market for community-based conservation projects.