WORKING WITH THE STATE OUTDOOR SPORTING CAUCUS

The California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus was established to protect and promote California's wildlife, their habitats, and the ability of the public to participate in wildlife-related recreational activities. Caucus co-chairs are Senator Dennis Hollingsworth (R-Murrieta) and newly appointed Assembly Member Nicole Parra (D-Hanford).

As a bi-partisan, bi-cameral group, the caucus' goal is to protect and enhance California's wildlife habitats and to further the understanding and acceptance of outdoor activities throughout the state, this according to the new caucus Web site, http://senweb03.senate.ca.gov/outdoorsportingcaucus.

Working with legislative members, hunting and fishing groups, recreational interests, wildlife conservation and other like-minded organizations, the California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus plans to use the unprecedented partnership to educate, focus and coordinate the State Legislature’s support of California’s wildlife and fishery resources and the outdoor-related activities that depend upon them.

Caucus members will also take time to enjoy the great outdoors at various events sponsored by California Waterfowl Association, California Outdoor Heritage Alliance, National Wild Turkey Federation, National Shooting Sports Foundation, and other conservation partners. These fun excursions – which will include target shooting and other endeavors – will help to further educate and excite Legislators about our outdoor heritage and help build membership and strengthen the caucus.

In June 2006, the caucus held its annual "Legislative Trap Shoot" at the Sacramento Trapshooting Club. The event, which was sponsored by COHA, NWTF, NRA, and CWA, was a great success with over 70 attendees, including Senator Dennis Hollingsworth, numerous other caucus members, the newest addition Assembly Member Chuck Devore (R- Irvine), legislative staff members, government agency representatives, and other shooting enthusiasts.

The trap shoot was quickly followed by the caucus’ annual “Legislative Dinner” in August 2006 at the Sutter Club in downtown Sacramento. Thanks go to Dino Cortopassi for his generous financial support of the dinner. The event was attended by more than 120 people, including numerous members of the Legislature, their staff, agency representatives, and our conservation partners.  Once again, by working with Senator Dennis Hollingsworth, the “Legislative Dinner” was an enjoyable, informative event.

Watch for future updates on the California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus.