MIDDLEBURY, Conn. –– The Outdoor Industry Communication Council (OICC) shares the importance of informed participation in wildlife management. Andrew McKean, Hunting and Conservation Editor at Outdoor Life and former member of the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission, wrote two articles for OICC on the Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation (OSCF) website. These articles, “The Politicization of Wildlife Commissions” and “How Effective is Your Wildlife Commissioner,” shed light on the evolving landscape of wildlife governance, the increasing political impact on wildlife commissions and the need for diverse perspectives in decision-making processes.

McKean provides insight on wildlife commissions dedicated to managing natural resources. Historically, these have been non-partisan efforts. Recent trends have shown a shift toward politicization, rather than commissioners taking in the overarching public interest and a holistic view of wildlife stewardship.

The articles touch on the idea that effective wildlife management looks to the principles of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, which advocates for science-based decision-making and the management of public resources. As the public’s values around wildlife continue to change, it is important that the selected wildlife commissioners each bring diverse perspectives.

The OICC’s goal is to better inform people of the benefits of getting outdoors and participating in activities such as hunting, fishing, trapping and target shooting. The OICC calls on the public to take an active role in wildlife governance, emphasizing the importance of understanding who your commissioner is, including their qualifications and values in this role. Engaging with local wildlife management discussions is a great way to start.

We invite individuals and organizations interested in wildlife conservation to join the conversation and explore how they can contribute to a balanced approach to wildlife management.

Sign up to become a member of the Outdoor Industry Communication Council and receive free content at https://www.outdoorstewards.org/outdoor-industry-communication-council-oicc/

To access the articles and for more information about OICC and OSCF visit www.OutdoorStewards.org, Instagram, Facebook or YouTube.

About OSCF:

Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation (OSCF) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that works with all facets of the outdoor industry to improve cultural acceptance of gun ownership, hunting, fishing, trapping and target shooting. We use research-based communications and engagement programs that help recruit the next generation of HATS (Hunters, Anglers, Trappers and Shooters) and promote the fact that HATS are primary funders and stewards of conservation in America. To learn more about OSCF programs; “Fill A Bag While Filling Your Tag”, “Come With!”, “Donate a Deer”, “Connecting with Conservation” and the “Outdoor Industry Communication Council,” please visit www.OutdoorStewards.org or contact Jim Curcuruto at (203) 450-7202, jim@stewardsofconservation.org.

About the Outdoor Industry Communication Council (OICC):

Formed around the commitment to educate all Americans about the origins of conservation funding in America, the Outdoor Industry Communication Council (OICC) is managed by Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation (OSCF) and Wildlife Management Institute (WMI). OICC works with outdoor writers to develop informative content that is available to all outdoor organizations and media at no cost. A primary goal of the OICC is to better inform and promote the positive contributions that wildlife agencies, industry manufacturers, NGO’s and end users such as hunters, anglers, trappers and target shooters make to conservation. Outdoor organizations interested in conservation are welcome to use any OICC content to expand the reach of messages created by the OICC. To become a member of the Outdoor Industry Communication Council, contact Jim Curcuruto of OSCF (203) 450-7202 jim@stewardsofconservation.org or Jon Gassett of WMI at (502) 330-9025
jgassett@wildlifemgt.org. There are no costs involved to become a member of the OICC. Members may utilize OICC materials as they see fit with no restrictions. For additional information visit https://www.outdoorstewards.org/outdoor-industry-communicationcouncil-oicc/.