by Mike Hall, Jan 16, 2007

Union men and women who fish and hunt and want to protect and preserve wildlife habitat and access to public lands now can take part in an alliance that includes 20 AFL-CIO unions and the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (TRCP).

The Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) and the TRCP—a coalition of hunting fishing and conservation organizations—will work together to boost the TRCP’s long-standing dedication to guaranteeing  access for hunters and anglers, conserving fish and wildlife habitat and increasing funding for conservation.

Says Machinists (IAM) President Tom Buffenbarger:

Quality places to hunt and fish are disappearing—threatening America’s sporting heritage. The USA will help turn the tide by unifying union sportsmen and women across the country to form a strong voice of influence.

A recent survey of the unions taking part in the alliance finds more than 3.2 million members hunt or fish, yet the vast majority don‘t belong to any conservation, hunting or fishing organization. The new group will give them opportunity to be part of a union sporting club, says Fire Fighters (IAFF) President Harold Schaitberger:

For many of our members, hunting and fishing isn’t just what they do in their free time, they’re part of who they are. We’re proud to offer a program to help our hardworking men and women enjoy the activities they’re passionate about.

AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Richard Trumka says the new partnership between the unions and the conservation group:

is a way for unions to reconnect with workers in another portion of their lives and meet a need they have. It’s also going to give the conservation movement a lot more muscle.

Click here to learn more about the TRCP and here for a list of unions in the new Union Sportsmen’s Alliance.

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