Backcountry Hunters & Anglers added longtime outdoors advocate John Kline of Kline Associates, Ltd. to its Pennsylvania team as it continues to strengthen its voice as a leader for wild public lands, water and wildlife in the Keystone State.

Chris Hennessey, regional manager for Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, announced the appointment today.

“John brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the outdoor and public lands policy realm to BHA. He has successfully represented hunters and anglers for years, and we are fortunate to have him working with us on the important initiatives on the horizon,” said Hennessey, of State College. “John’s presence will only strengthen the work of our Pennsylvania Chapter.”

With more than 20 years of experience in education and advocacy for the outdoors, hunting, fishing and conservation, Kline will focus on outreach efforts, membership growth and educating the public and policy makers about BHA’s public lands mission.

“I’m thrilled to work with the fastest growing conservation organization in the country and lend my support to the important work of BHA,” said Kline. “Since its arrival in Pennsylvania in 2014, BHA has worked tirelessly on many of the issues that are at the heart of who we are as hunters and anglers. I’ve seen the work that BHA and its members can do and look forward to what we can accomplish in the future.”

A lifelong hunter and sport shooter, Kline, of Harrisburg, holds memberships in and serves on the board of Harrisburg Hunters and Anglers Association and Hummelstown F&S Association, is a benefactor life member of the National Rifle Association and is a life member of Pennsylvania Federation of Sportsmen & Conservationists. Kline enjoys small game and deer hunting and trap/sporting clays as well as competitive pistol shooting.  He is also a certified pistol instructor.

He serves on the board of the Wildlife for Everyone Foundation and the Wildlife Leadership Academy. Kline is also an active member of the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers Association.

“PA BHA has a busy year of education and outreach events planned, so John is coming on at the perfect time,” said Nate Fronk, chairman of the Pennsylvania Chapter and a resident of Kunkletown. “His many relationships and deep knowledge of conservation issues in the commonwealth will help us continue to grow and increase our impact in 2021.”