Game Changers: Climate Impacts to America’s Hunting, Fishing, and Wildlife Heritage

Hunters and anglers are on the front lines of climate change, seeing its devastating effects on wildlife and traditional recreation first-hand, says the National Wildlife Federation. The organization’s recent report, Game Changers: Climate Impacts to America’s Hunting, Fishing, and Wildlife Heritage, explores the importance of sportsmen and women for conservation and the recreation economy. It also examines the challenges faced by outdoor recreationists and the wildlife important to hunters and anglers in the face of a changing climate.

U.S. hunters and anglers contribute some $90 billion to the national economy each year and help support more than 680,000 jobs, according to the report. The loss of recreational hunting and fishing opportunities due to climate change could have real economic impacts across the nation, particularly in rural areas. With the help of sportsmen and women, The National Wildlife Federation believes that the causes of climate change can be addressed through the support and implementation of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Power Plan to reduce carbon pollution from power plants, developing clean energy sources and reducing fossil fuel use. Download and read the complete report here.