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President's Message

Happy 100 th Anniversary!

AWCF’s roots were established in 1911 under the leadership of Harry Leonard of the Winchester Repeating Arms Company. His foresight generated support from manufacturers of arms and ammunition for the incorporation of the American Game Protective and Propagation Association.

The goals of the Association were to protect fish and game resources, to enact legislation needed for that protection, to support law enforcement, to encourage propagation, and to educate individuals and organizations on the value of fish and wildlife. The Association actively supported development of migratory bird laws and treaties, the game refuge bill, and the duck stamp bill. The annual North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference is a descendent of similar annual meetings established by the Association.

In1969, the Association consolidated with the New York State Conservation Council Foundation, forming an ongoing group called the New York Conservation Council and American Game Association Foundation.

The Certificate of Consolidation was amended in 1978 to change the name to the American Wildlife Research Foundation, which is now the American Wildlife Conservation Foundation. Many of us have followed fulfilling fish and wildlife management careers in academic, consulting and government positions based on the successful management models established by the Association.

But today’s management needs are different. The general public is basically unaware that new fish and wildlife management issues continue to surface. Nuisance complaints arise more frequently as humans continue to encroach on and restrict habitats, fishing stocks are depleted to feed an increasing human population, invasive species hitchhike around the world with human commerce, and wildlife populations are affected by climate change. The Foundation has continued forward with its commitment to research, conservation and education, with a major focus on research grants. The Foundation will continue to support research grants, but perhaps it’s time to increase our focus on the educational leg of our commitment. Members need to contribute the drive and dedication of our Association pioneers to alert people about the economic and environmental consequences that will result from mismanagement or loss of fish and wildlife resources. The Foundation has already produced a DVD on invasive forest insects and is now working on a PSA showing the effects of outdoor cats on wildlife, particularly birds.

Member commitment can start with attendance at our 100 th Anniversary celebration. The event will be a luncheon in Syracuse at SUNY CESF on September 21. The luncheon meeting will be highlighted by the presence of Gordon Robertson. Many of you knew Gordon when he worked for the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. He has moved on to the Vice-Presidency of the American Sportfishing Association. Gordon will share his professional thoughts on “Celebrating Past Successes and Embracing Future Challenges”. Join us in carrying forward the pioneering spirit of 1911 that is still needed to address issues critical to the survival of fish and wildlife resources and humans.

Peg Sauer