NWTF’s Insights from the 2024 R3 Symposium

R3 (Recruit, Retain and Reactivate), is a national initiative aimed at increasing participation in hunting and the shooting sports. This movement is vital for preserving the traditions and heritage of these activities. The NWTF leverages R3 to fulfill its mission of conserving North America's hunting heritage. NWTF R3 coordinators are strategically placed to foster social support and increase participation in hunting and shooting sports, particularly among new and diverse audiences. These coordinators work with state natural resources agencies and partners to organize engaging events to make these activities a consistent part of participants' lives.

The symposium served as a brainstorming hub for R3 strategies, with attendees discussing various topics such as hunting and fishing participation numbers, youth shooting sports, new R3 strategies, demographics of outdoor enthusiasts, the rise in female participation and more. The NWTF was a proud sponsor of the event.

Two NWTF staff members were also featured speakers during the symposium. Morgan Evans, NWTF national R3 and relevancy coordinator, highlighted the idea that public attitudes toward hunting and the shooting sports are as crucial as participation numbers. The panel emphasized the need for positive public perception. Citing last year's decline in approval, new data and initiatives were unveiled aimed at improving public sentiment at state and regional levels.

On Friday, Jesse Warner, NWTF northeast R3 coordinator, helped lead a breakout session discussing the importance of expanding regional R3 capacity through dedicated positions. This session offered insights into the early successes, lessons learned and future plans for these roles, demonstrating the growing support and resources for R3 efforts.

NWTF staff in attendance had the opportunity to network and collaborate on innovative strategies to reverse the declining trend in hunting and shooting sports participation nationwide. Here are their key takeaways from this year’s conference.

Mandy Harling, NWTF National Director of Education and Outreach

“The R3 Symposium is a bit like our NWTF convention, in that is somewhat of a family reunion for outreach, education and R3 professionals. That's part of my biggest takeaway, the only way to preserve hunting for future generations is to work in partnership with state and federal agencies, other NGOs and with our communities who help us make a larger impact and have a stronger voice. While we were there, we shared the Hunt for Good national campaign which is focused on building support for hunting and we walked away with a list of potential new partners.”

Morgan Evans, National R3 and Relevancy Coordinator

“Leaving the R3 Symposium this year, I was left with such high encouragement and excitement as we saw significant momentum in our field, supported by new research. One of the largest obstacles that R3 has faced is the component of quantifiable justifications for our ‘whys’ and decision-making, but the research that was presented this year really gave way to clear pathways where action and implementation can take place. And the depth of emphasis placed on evaluation of our programs and outreach is essential for continuing to grow and develop with the needs of our new demographics.”

Jesse Warner, Northeast R3 Coordinator

“My largest takeaway from the 2024 Symposium was the level of participation and partnership happening across the various levels of R3. In the room, there were NGOs such as the NWTF, along with outdoor industry, and state and federal agencies. To see that level of interest in R3 across all these levels does my heart good, and I am glad to know that the NWTF is at the forefront of these efforts and in pursuit of our shared missions.”

Jen Davis, Hunting and Shooting R3 Coordinator, Michigan

“The R3 symposium was immensely educational and offered such a perfect blend of professional development and connection opportunities with fellow R3 practitioners. I'm not sure I've ever had the opportunity to attend a more effective and engaging conference. The training for newer practitioners on adaptive management and evaluation was enlightening, and the breakout sessions were inspirational.”

Bre Bashford, R3 Coordinator, Georgia R3 Initiative 

“The annual R3 Symposium is one of the most inspiring meetings of the year. Attendees hear about the most recent research in hunting and target shooting. We learn about what other programmers across the country are engaged in and catch a glimpse into the grand scale of work all being done under the umbrella of wildlife conservation. This year I was especially interested in learning more about the R3 Practitioner's Guide published by the Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports. This document was drafted to be the foundational learning tool for anyone wanting to learn more or enhance their organization's R3 efforts. I'm excited to comb through it and improve my current offerings.”

Justin Grider, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division R3 Coordinator

“The R3 Symposium was filled with valuable information and networking opportunities. The shared insights underscore the substantial work ahead for the R3 Community, yet the high caliber of professionals in attendance is reassuring for tackling these challenges.”