Greater Rome Times

Atlanta, Ga. – Georgians have a chance to assure the future of the Peach State’s storied outdoor traditions … simply by voting Yes on Constitutional Amendment 2 in the Nov. 7 general election.

Amendment 2 asks:

“Shall the Constitution of Georgia be amended so as to provide that the tradition of fishing and hunting and the taking of fish and wildlife shall be preserved for the people and shall be managed by law and regulation for the public good?”

Hunting and fishing are not simply recreational activities in the Peach State. They are integral elements of Georgians’ everyday lives. The state remains home to one of the most well-known and highly respected landmarks in all of the woods and waters – George Perry’s world-record largemouth bass.

Taken more than 70 years ago, that mark stands as a symbol of activities that are engrained in state culture; activities that Georgians have practiced and valued for many generations. Today’s Georgia is drastically different from the Peach State of 1932, when Perry fooled a 22 lb., 4 oz. largemouth on a Creek Chub crankbait.

Numerous surveys have revealed the inevitable fact that increasing urbanization is leading more people to become disconnected from the woods and waters. More residents than ever before are less aware of conservation, its importance, and the significant roles that hunting and fishing play – and will continue to play if protected.

Amendment 2, when passed, will formalize the highest level of protection for those traditions, and it will do so in the face of well-funded, well-organized efforts to oppose hunting and fishing at every level.

Georgians for Outdoor Traditions (GOT) is a 501-c-4 nonprofit organization dedicated to educating all Georgia voters on the importance of passing Amendment 2. Georgia outdoor and conservation groups working with Georgians for Outdoor Traditions include Georgia Outdoor News, the GON Network, the Georgia Wildlife Federation, the National Wild Turkey Federation, the Quality Deer Management Association and SCI.

Information – http://GaOutdoorTraditions.org.