ARLINGTON, Va. — As states begin to ease stay-at-home restrictions, those among us who appreciate the outdoors will be called to get out to our public lands, waters, and parks and do what we love to do: fish, hunt, hike, bike, paddle.
But as we enjoy outdoor recreation this year, it’s important that we also stay safe and think about the impacts of our actions on our communities.
Trout Unlimited is partnering with some of our conservation partners, including the National Wild Turkey Federation, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever and the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, to spearhead the #ResponsibleRecreation media campaign.
Throughout the spring and summer, our organizations will encourage all Americans to enjoy outdoor recreation while adhering to common-sense social distancing guidelines and local, state, and federal COVID-19 safety protocols.
“Anglers can find solace and inspiration on the water. In times like these, we need the restorative power of nature,” said Chris Wood, president and CEO of Trout Unlimited. “But when we do go out to fish this spring, we need to recognize that we all have a duty to practice responsible behavior during this pandemic. The safety of our families and communities depends on it.”
Trout Unlimited has offered our 300,000 members and supporters some guidance on this front in conjunction with infectious disease experts. The basic takeaways:
- Stay local and fish home waters.
- Keep your distance — a fishing rod’s length from each other as a good rule of thumb.
- Wear face coverings when appropriate.
- Continue to follow state and federal guidelines.
It is important to get the word out to anglers and hunters to be smart about outdoor recreation this year. We can continue to enjoy our passions while being good citizens and helping keep our communities safe.
As part of the campaign, TU is running a social media contest to encourage anglers to share great images of themselves practicing #ResponsibleRecreation in their local communities. We’ll give prizes to the best contributors. The organization has also been offering free memberships to first responders and essential workers as a small gesture of thanks to those treating the sick and keeping our country functioning.
About Trout Unlimited:
Trout Unlimited is the nation’s oldest and largest coldwater fisheries conservation organization dedicated to conserving, protecting and restoring North America’s trout and salmon and their watersheds. Follow TU on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and our blog for all the latest information on trout and salmon conservation.
