Backcountry Beat April 2020
|
Friend —
If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my last seven years at BHA, it’s that energy and ingenuity that our folks bring to the table is second to none. These past couple of months have turned everyone’s world upside down, but from our members and chapter leaders to our corporate partners — we have collectively risen to the challenge of COVID-19. Whether that means stepping up to support struggling local businesses, virtual pint nights and our turkey calling contest, organizing “socially distanced” habitat cleanup projects, or changing gears to produce masks and protective gear for hospitals and first responders, our community is demonstrating resiliency. One pivot comes in the form of a gorgeous online film event. In conjunction with Project Upland, we are looking forward to sharing the Public Grouse Virtual Tour with all of you next week.
Yes, we’ve had to put some of our work on hold. The Great American Outdoors Act and other important legislation will have to wait as our legislators work to protect our citizens and our economy, but I have faith that our conservation priorities, many of which provide valuable jobs and critical funding for rural communities, will be front and center in the wake of this crisis.
Our North American Rendezvous is also going to have a different look this year. Our staff has been working hard to keep the spirit of Rendezvous alive, and we’re stoked to announce the Virtual Rendezvous June 1-6! We will release our schedule next week, and I know you will be impressed with the line-up of storytellers, seminars and just good clean fun. Who doesn’t want to watch BHA's own Ty Stubblefield compete against North American Board Member Hilary Hutcheson in a rod stringing contest or test themselves at Backcountry Trivia?
Keep an eye out for an invitation next week! While a virtual Rendezvous can’t replace the real thing in Missoula, we are going to do our damnedest to bring the energy, good times, and education that embodies our signature event.
Onward and upward,
Land Tawney
President and CEO
Backcountry Hunters & Anglers
The Backcountry Beat is brought to you by Platinum Partner Vortex Optics
|
