Delayed Events, but Not Momentum – Virtual R3 Forum Registration Opened

For Immediate Release
07/21/2020

Media Contact: Sawyer Connelly
symposium@cahss.org.

(Washington, D.C.) – The Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports opened registration today for the Virtual R3 Forum. The Virtual R3 Forum, occurring on Aug. 26 and 27, 2020, provides an opportunity for professionals dedicated to increasing participation in hunting, target shooting, and other outdoor recreation to gather virtually and learn from each other. The event is designed to allow participants to capitalize on the recently increased participation in hunting, angling, and other activities and will offer insights to help professionals retain new participants post-pandemic.

“For the last decade, we’ve focused on the declining rates of participation in hunting and other outdoor recreation. COVID-19 has changed the narrative and now presents us with additional opportunities to recruit and retain new hunters, target shooters, anglers, and boaters. Now, we must focus on encouraging professionals to learn from each other and make certain we provide the necessary opportunities for all Americans to enjoy outdoor recreation opportunities during these times,” stated Council CEO and President John Frampton.

Registration for the event will be free. Wednesday, August 26, will feature three presentations: COVID-19 & R3; Modern Multi State Conservation Grants; and Marketing to Retain Customers. Much of Thursday, August 27, will focus on the work of the National R3 Implementation Workgroup and the innovations in R3 sparked from the COVID-19 pandemic. Thursday will also feature updates on new mentoring research and offer professionals some ideas on how to enhance their mentoring efforts this fall. Each day will end with a virtual happy hour to discuss the day’s topics and time to connect with colleagues.

“We’re in the midst of some historic times, and we have a unique opportunity through the Virtual R3 Forum to influence the future right now. COVID-19 may have delayed events, but it hasn’t delayed our momentum. Professionals have met weekly at events through the National R3 Community to exchange ideas and respond to the never-ending challenges which COVID presents. The Virtual R3 Forum is a culminating point for our efforts and allows us, as a community, a chance to narrow our focus and ensure that we retain as many hunters and other outdoor recreationists for the 2020 season and beyond,” commented Samantha Pedder, Director of Operations for the Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports.

The Virtual R3 Forum, planned for August 26-27, 2020, will take place via the virtual platform, Crowdcast. Many sessions will be recorded, and registrants will be offered access to recorded content and other resources provided during the event through the National R3 Community. Sessions begin at 12:00 PM EDT each day and finish by 6:00 PM EDT. To register and learn more about the event, please visit www.cahss.org/r3forum.