Ruffed grouse hunting and conservation was recently featured as the focus of a political campaign video. As a result of this, and in light of the upcoming election, we feel compelled to remind our members that we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
RGS & AWS is a nonpartisan organization and did not sponsor the production, creation, or launch of this video. Our nonprofit status dictates that we are prohibited from participating in, or intervening in, any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for elective public office. We work with a wide range of vendors and contractors with varying political affiliations. We are assessing our agreements with vendors/contractors to ensure we are within the bounds of our 501(c)(3) status.
The management of ruffed grouse and their forest habitats has risen in prominence as we face tough challenges. It should be no surprise that our cause is gaining national attention. Despite hardships of the past eight months and discord within our nation, we remain laser-focused on uniting conservationists.
Regardless of this election’s results, RGS & AWS will continue to engage partners from across the political spectrum on urgent issues. Above all else, our mission is: healthy forests, abundant wildlife, and conservation ethics.