Alaska is known for its sprawling, breathtaking scenic landscapes and an abundance of wildlife. And while it’s the largest state in the United States by area, it’s the least densely populated but that certainly doesn’t stop Alaskans from getting out and learning new ways to enjoy it. Enter the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, which recently co-sponsored the NRA Youth Sportsfest Firearm Safety Camp—a “no cost” camp designed to help youth responsibly and safely enjoy firearms. RMEF, which devotes a part of its mission to “ensure our hunting heritage,” contributed $3,750 for ammunition and $250 for safety equipment and supplies.
RMEF has a long history of supporting such activities in Alaska. Since 1992, RMEF and its partners completed 73 conservation and hunting heritage projects with a combined value of more than $5.3 million.
Volunteers from the Mat-Sue Chapter offered supervision and guidance to 394 youth age 8-18 by helping the boys and girls shoot small and large caliber rifles and pistols, black powder muzzleloading rifles and pistols, cowboy-action pistols and rifles, 12-gauge and 20-gauge shotguns, and compound bows at the Birchwood Recreation & Shooting Park in Chugiak.
The youth left the camp with much more than newly acquired knowledge, confidence and noticeable smiles on their faces. Each attendee received a coupon to attend a Hunter Education course offered through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Before they left they also received lunch and then took home a free gift ranging from camping supplies to hunting and fishing equipment as a way to encourage kids to participate in future outdoor activities and remain active.
Special thanks goes out to our dedicated Alaska volunteers, our co-sponsors, local law enforcement and the Chugiak Volunteer Fire Department.