Online auction bidding closes Dec. 12

PHOENIX – In a show of support for protecting access and enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities on public lands, nearly 250 people attended the recent "Respected Access in Arizona" campaign fundraiser at the Ben Avery Clay Target Center in Phoenix.

The second-annual event, hosted by the Arizona Game and Fish Department and national nonprofit Tread Lightly!, brought together not only outdoor recreationists, but industry leaders, local stakeholders and representatives from both federal and state agencies responsible for managing Arizona's public lands.

The "Respected Access in Arizona" campaign was established to protect access and enhance outdoor recreational opportunities, with a special focus on promoting responsible recreational shooting. Proceeds from the fun shoot, barbecue dinner, raffles and auction will help to fund campaign strategies, including billboards and other signage, educational materials, public service announcements, stewardship projects and more.

"Our ultimate goal is changing the behavior of visitors to our public lands and encouraging these citizens to demonstrate a strong recreational ethic in an effort to protect our access, legitimate use of those lands and our heritage of hunting, fishing and wildlife recreation," said Larry Voyles, director of Game and Fish.

More than 60 businesses and organizations participated in the Nov. 7 fundraiser, including presenting sponsors John Deere and Dallas Safari Club. Other sponsors included AZFirearms.com and Federal Premium Ammunition (platinum), and National Shooting Sports Foundation and Arizona Archery Club (gold).

"The success of this partnership program is remarkable," said Lori McCullough, Tread Lightly! executive director. "The funds we are raising in Arizona will remain in Arizona to help sustain the incredible momentum we are building to motivate behavior change and empower citizen stewards in this great state."

The event also marked the launch of an online auction, with bidding closing Dec. 12. Some of the items include:

• John Deere "Gator" XUV 825i utility vehicle.
  
• Five-day plains game hunt in South Africa (up to four hunters), including trophy fees and taxidermy credits.
  
• Smittybilt Overlander Vehicle Tent, tent awning, portable Arctic Fridge/Freezer, 3,000-pound winch, and air compressor.
  
• Set of four Vogue tires.
  
• Ruger SR1911 centerfire pistol, Model #6711.

For more information about the "Respected Access in Arizona" campaign, visit www.respectedaccessarizona.org.

-30-

Contact:
Dale Hajek, (623) 236-7215
Public Information Officer, AZGFD