PIERRE, S.D. – Representatives from South Dakota’s Department of Game, Fish and Parks joined wildlife conservation leaders from around the country for a recent national Summit on Conservation Education in West Virginia.

The summit was planned as a way to gather conservation leaders and educators, primarily from state fish and wildlife agencies, to lay the groundwork for a national strategy for conservation education. The result of the summit was a series of recommendations that were sent to all 50 states.

Doug Hansen, director of the Game, Fish and Parks Division of Wildlife, was one of the South Dakota representatives at the summit. "I was pleased with the time and hard work that all the delegates gave to that meeting. My hope is that this summit will provide renewed spirit for understanding the value of conserving our natural resources. Education has long been a priority of mine, and I was very pleased to be a part of this nationwide effort," he said.

Hansen noted that conservation education is one of the most important tools that wildlife managers have for opening the minds of citizens to the value and complexity of conservation, as well as the enjoyment that can be realized from fish and wildlife resources.

"I am proud of the education work that GFP is able to share with the people of this state," Hansen said. "We have naturalists in several areas of the state that offer learning opportunities in schools, programs and state parks. We have one of the leading education facilities in the country at The Outdoor Campus in Sioux Falls. There is a great thirst for knowledge about the natural wonders of South Dakota, and we are challenged to meet the demands for education opportunities."

Hansen went on to credit sportsmen and women with helping fund conservation education. "Like most states, the Division of Wildlife is funded largely through the sale of hunting and fishing licenses. These hunters and anglers recognize that they have a responsibility to pass along their heritage of conservation to the next generation, and they have been enthusiastic in their support of our education programs. In accordance with this national emphasis, we will continue to place a priority on our efforts, and look for opportunities to enhance or expand those efforts."

-GFP-