Episode 51 - Reviving Hunting Participation Through R3 Strategies and Urban Outreach

Discover how hunters, educators, and advocates are reshaping the future of hunting and conservation. In this episode of The Sportsmen’s Voice, host Fred Bird explores the R3 movement—Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation—and its critical role in the future of hunting, shooting sports, and wildlife conservation across the U.S. Fred first welcomes Taniya Bethke, a national voice for inclusive hunting access, to talk about the importance of community engagement, education, and partnerships in growing support for hunting and public lands. She breaks down how to better connect with urban populations and why shifting public perception is essential to long-term success in conservation. Then, Courtney Braunns of the Pennsylvania Game Commission joins to share what's working—and what’s not—at the state level. She highlights youth hunting initiatives, college outreach, and the impact of Sunday hunting legalization in reversing declining participation trends. She also discusses the challenges of land access and the importance of mentorship programs for first-time hunters. Finally, Fred sits down with Greg Kretschmar, longtime radio host and outdoor advocate in New England. They dive into the role of media in shaping opinions on hunting, how social platforms can both help and hurt, and why personal outdoor experiences remain powerful tools for changing minds and hearts. Greg reflects on the therapeutic value of time in nature and the responsibility of hunters to lead by example. Takeaways R3 Framework: Recruitment, retention, and reactivation efforts are vital to hunting's future. Urban Outreach: Engaging city dwellers and college students expands the hunting base. Land Access: A top barrier to new hunter participation, especially in metro areas. Mentorship Matters: New hunters thrive when guided by experienced outdoorsmen and women. Conservation Funding: Hunters contribute directly through licenses and excise taxes. Social Media's Impact: Perception of hunting is shaped—often negatively—online. Therapeutic Outdoors: Hunting and time in nature support mental health and well-being. Inclusive Messaging: Public lands belong to everyone—education must reflect that. Wildlife Management: Hunting plays a vital role in population control and habitat care. Partnerships Matter: Collaborations between agencies, NGOs, and hunters amplify success.   Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter                Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices