Montana Wildlife Federation executive director David Chadwick believes that the longstanding “hook and bullet” culture of the Treasure State opens the door for constructive dialogue when it comes to conservation efforts, allowing environmental leaders to motivate citizens to take action. 

“Montanans spend their free time in the woods and on the water, often with a gun or fly rod in their hand; they fill their freezers every fall with elk, venison, and other wild game. This strong culture of hunting and fishing provides a platform for outreach and advocacy, because wildlife and habitat issues are so personal,” Chadwick said. “Managing big game, conserving endangered species, protecting water quality in our rivers and streams for trout are not just abstract ‘environmental issues’ as they may seem in other parts of the country. They have a tangible impact on Montanans’ lives.” 

In fact, the Montana Wildlife Federation, which celebrated its 80th anniversary in 2016, was founded by hunters and anglers. This contingent is still well represented in the organization’s membership today, which is united by a high level of direct engagement with wildlife and the outdoors. 

“We’re dedicated to mobilizing citizens to protect the state’s abundant wildlife, natural lands and clean waters, and public access to the outdoors. We pursue this by educating people about conservation issues and involving them in the public policy process,” Chadwick said.