Congress Should Come Together and Support Our Kids Getting Outside
While Washington often appears to be stuck in gridlock, one thing that members across the aisle agree on is how important outdoor recreation is, especially fishing. Spending time on the water every week has positive impacts on both individuals and the entire country, as studies indicate that time in nature leads to individuals being healthier mentally, and more supportive of conservation and environmental stewardship. Outdoor recreation is also an economic boon for the United States, as anglers contribute $148 billion annually to the U.S. economy.
Besides fisheries policy and producing the largest fishing trade show in the world, my organization, the American Sportfishing Association, is dedicated to projects that provide access to fishing and getting more Americans fishing across our country. Despite our industry being a strong economic driver, we still need to increase the number of younger Americans that go fishing so we can grow in the future. In an era where children are kept inside on their computers and mobile phones, or playing video games, getting kids outside is more crucial than ever. Fortunately, a bipartisan group of members of Congress just introduced legislation that will help children get outside and develop a lifelong love of fishing.
On June 7, Representatives Maria Salazar (R-Fla.), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.) and fifteen other members from across the political spectrum introduced the Youth Coastal Fishing Program Act, which would create a $2 million grant program within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for projects that take children fishing in along our coastlines or on Great Lakes. The bill was also introduced with bipartisan support in the Senate, by Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.). In these divided times, this legislation attracting members from across the political spectrum shows just how popular outdoor recreation is among all Americans!
Despite the critical nature of outdoor recreation, many barriers exist, especially for those in underserved communities, that stop kids from participating. This bill will help eliminate these barriers by prioritizing underserved communities that apply for grants, ensuring that children have plenty of options to fish, regardless of any obstacles they face when trying to land a fish. Studies show that over 86 percent of anglers first go fishing before the age of 12, meaning that a kid going on a few fishing trips will set them up for a lifetime of outdoor fun and an understanding of the importance of conservation for years to come. And chances are if you don’t go fishing by the age of 12, then you never will.
The Youth Coastal Fishing Program Act goes beyond merely taking kids fishing, as it also provides kids with the education they need on how to fish. The legislation will also consider grants for organizations that educate children about marine science, conservation and fishing regulations, instilling a deep understanding of the ecological interconnectedness of our oceans and Great Lakes and the role that responsible fishing plays in maintaining a healthy marine ecosystem. The knowledge gained through these programs can also help these new anglers become advocates for sustainable fishing practices, catch-and-release techniques, and the importance of conservation, leading to long-term benefits for all Americans for years to come.
This bill is also important for bringing NOAA in line with other federal agencies that manage the outdoors. Federal agencies including the National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and U.S. Forest Service already have dedicated programs that connect the public to nature. NOAA Fisheries, which oversees our country’s federal marine fisheries, does not have such a program, meaning that this bill would create a first-of-its-kind program, teaching children the importance of coastal conservation and how fishing can help them connect with nature.
While critics may be cynical that the legislation diverts resources and attention away from other pressing issues, it is essential to view the Youth Coastal Fishing Program Act as an investment in our collective future. The bipartisan nature of this bill shows how important educating the next generation of Americans on how to fish is, and its passage will let millions of young Americans become stewards of our environment. Thanks to Congresswomen Salazar and Kamlager-Dove and Senators Wicker and Cantwell for introducing this important legislation, the future of our coastal ecosystems and coastal communities depends on it.
Glenn Hughes is the President of the American Sportfishing Association.
