Waterfowl hunters make big contribution

WATERFOWL HUNTERS spent $900 million on an array of goods and services from food, transportation, guns and decoys to hunting dogs, clothing and other related expenses in 2006, according to a new report issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

These trip- and equipment-related expenditures produced more than $2.3 billion in total economic output for 2006, which resulted in $157 million in federal and state tax revenues, supported more than 27,000 jobs, and generated more than $8.5 million in employment income.

The financial support provided to conservation, and the economy as a whole, is significant. Waterfowlers, like many other sportsmen, have a proven track record in their contributions to the U.S. economy, and that's certainly something to take comfort in during these tough economic times. The report, The Economic Impact of Waterfowl Hunting in the United States, is an addendum to the 2006 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife Associated Recreation. The report shows more than 1.3 million people, 16 years of age and older, hunted waterfowl in 2006. Waterfowl hunters represented 10 percent of all hunters, 7 percent of all hunting trip-related expenditures and 6 percent of all equipment expenditures.

The Service plays a key role in providing outdoor recreation opportunities such as hunting, with hunters being critical partners - in part through their purchase of Federal Duck Stamps and a tax on firearms and ammunition that supports habitat conservation. The National Survey, conducted every five years, since 1955, is one of the nation's most definitive sources of information concerning wildlife dependent recreation. The U.S. Census Bureau conducted the survey in two phases.

First, a screening interview identified wildlife-related recreationists. The second phase consisted of multiple interviews to collect detailed information on participation and expenditures for U.S. residents 16 years of age and older. The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is to work with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. They are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for their scientific excellence, stewardship of natural resources, dedicated professionalism and commitment to public service.