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Gov. Kay Ivey on Thursday signed a proclamation celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day which takes place on Saturday, Sept. 28.

Since 1972, the fourth Saturday in September has been designated as National Hunting and Fishing Day to highlight the vital role that hunting, fishing and shooting sports play in conservation efforts in the United States.

“I take great pride in honoring our hunters and anglers with this proclamation,” said Ivey. “The abundant fish and wildlife we enjoy today in Alabama would not be possible without hunters and anglers. I thank them for their continued support for conservation and their stewardship of our public lands.”

Alabama is a hunting and fishing paradise with more than a million acres of public hunting land, 23 state public fishing lakes, excellent bass fishing and one of the largest artificial reef systems in the world that supports a robust fishery along the state’s Gulf Coast.

“We are blessed to live in a state with an abundance of fish and wildlife and wild places that are available to the public for outdoor recreation,” said Chris Blankenship, Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR). “Even if you do not hunt or fish, you can still enjoy the benefits of Alabama’s natural resources thanks to the conservation efforts of our hunters, anglers, and those who participate in shooting sports. I thank Governor Ivey for highlighting the importance of outdoor recreation in our great state.”

Hunting, fishing and shooting sports fund the majority of conservation efforts in Alabama through the purchase of recreational licenses and excise taxes collected on specific hunting and fishing equipment. License dollars are federally matched nearly three to one through the Wildlife Restoration and Sport Fish Restoration acts to fund the management of the state’s wildlife and fisheries for the benefit of all Alabamians.

Outdoor recreation is also a major driver of the state’s economy through jobs in the hunting, fishing and firearms industries.

“Outdoor recreation isn’t just a pastime or tradition, it’s an important part of our state’s economy,” said Ivey. “Hunting, fishing and shooting sports create jobs for thousands of Alabamians. When folks take part in these activities they are creating a more prosperous future for us all.”