The Next Teddy Roosevelt?
Theodore Roosevelt (TR), leader of the Rough Riders and hero at San Juan, progressive politician and social reformer, 26th President of the United States – TR was also known as the “Great Conservationist” and set aside over 125 million acres of national forest while president, and created the first national wildlife refuge, Pelican Island, in 1903. How did TR come to care about conservation? His effectiveness for conservation came from his intellect, personality, and office; however, his care came from exposure to wild things and wild places early in life. TR was a naturalist and a hunter. He loved the out-of-doors and he wanted to make sure that others could experience what he enjoyed for years to come.
Who will be the next TR? How will they first get connected with nature? The National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS) had its birth with a stroke of TR’s pen; it is now redoubling its efforts to facilitate opportunities for Americans to experience wildlife and to follow in the footsteps of Roosevelt to be conservation heroes of the future. The Hunting, Fishing, and Outdoor Recreation Implementation Team for Conserving the Future is working with states and other partners to provide new quality opportunities for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, and photography, and other appropriate refuge uses, for the NWRS. Five sub-teams are addressing issues such as improving outdoor skills, welcoming and orienting hunters and anglers, fish stocking policies, appropriate use decisions, and inventory and increasing the number of quality outdoor recreation opportunities. The strategies being developed will focus on a broad range of opportunities across the nation, and for a diverse group of people, with special consideration for new opportunities for youth and people with disabilities. 
Hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreational pursuits are steeped in tradition within the United States and can provide outstanding opportunities for families to enjoy their public lands. And who knows – it may be the close observation and a special photograph of a deer taken by a young boy, or the first mallard duck harvested by a young girl, to spark a passion for conservation, and lead them down a path to be the next Teddy Roosevelt. Let’s hope so!
This blog was written by Robin West, co-chair of the Hunting, Fishing, and Outdoor Recreation Implementation Team. Robin is also the Regional Chief of the National Wildlife Refuge System in the Pacific Region. His favorite TR quote is, “Do what you can, with what you have, where you are”. With this guidance, we understand that we ALL have tools to help build a great conservation future!
*This is the fourth “In the Spotlight” blog post that will keep you informed on the nine implementation teams and the work they are performing to make the vision a reality. Check out our Facebook page and Twitter for continual updates!
