Hunters Show Strong Support for Conservation, Background Checks, Strong Opposition to Assault Weapons Ban

DENVER, March 27, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Three out of four hunters support background checks with reasonable exceptions for all gun sales according to a national poll of America's hunters conducted by the Bull Moose Sportsmen's Alliance. The poll also highlights a significant concern among hunters regarding loss of farmland, ranches and habitat for fish and wildlife. In addition, the poll highlights that 94% of hunters hold a genuine concern that they are not making their voices heard in Washington.

"The poll shows that sportsmen's passion for the rod and gun is equally matched by a passion for conservation. They also care deeply about ensuring that the outdoor opportunities we enjoy today will be enjoyed by future generations of sportsmen," said Gaspar Perricone, Co-Director of the Bull Moose Sportsmen's Alliance. "Now, more than ever, we need to get involved in decision-making processes at the state and national level on the issues we care about most."

The bipartisan poll, conducted by Public Opinion Strategies and Global Strategy Group, surveyed 800 hunters nationally and asked a variety of questions about the importance of conservation, access to hunting and fishing opportunities, federal funding for public lands, the federal deficit and also asked hunters' opinions on gun issues being debated across the country.

According to the poll:

• 93% of sportsmen say that wildlife habitat, clean water, opportunities to hunt and fish, and access to public lands are important issues they consider when voting for someone
• 91% say public lands are an essential part of our economy
• Three out of four hunters oppose selling off public lands
• Almost all hunters surveyed agree that their outdoor traditions and recreation opportunities are being lost for the next generation
• Three out of four of hunters believe that cuts to public funding for land conservation and wildlife is a serious issue

The poll also shows three out of four sportsmen believe that 2^nd Amendment rights can be protected while keeping guns out of the hands of criminals and 84% of hunters oppose making the manufacture, sale, or transfer of semi-automatic firearms illegal.

"We are proud supporters of the 2^nd Amendment, but we also recognize the need to promote responsible gun ownership including efforts to keep guns from dangerous people," said Tim Mauck of the Bull Moose Sportsmen's Alliance. "Our goal is to keep our children safe while ensuring that our rich tradition of hunting and recreational shooting will be enjoyed by the next generation. We can begin to do so by expressing these views to our elected officials," Mauck continued.

Bull Moose plans to use the results of this poll to connect America's sportsmen to policies that support conservation, increase hunting and angling participation and protect 2^nd Amendment rights for sportsmen in the halls of Washington and state legislatures.

To view the poll's key findings, click here.

About the Bull Moose Sportsmen's Alliance:

Established in honor of President Theodore Roosevelt and his commitment to conservation, the Denver-based alliance was founded in 2010 and has grown to include member-sportsmen and sportswomen across the United States.

CONTACT:
Kyle Miller
720-346-4669

SOURCE Bull Moose Sportsmen’s Alliance