Yesterday I heard that Utah was cutting it’s State Parks budget and totally eliminating one park in particular. Today I read that Kim Hiss’ FSHuntress blog fell subject to budget cuts by Field & Stream. I am always saddened to hear when budget cuts are directed at outdoor recreation, natural resources or woman’s sports or programs.
I know everyone is struggling with the economy and this was probably not an easy decision for Field & Stream. I’m also sure that Field & Stream knew that the page views of the FSHuntress blog were just a fraction of what they are for its five other blogs. The problem is that the average hunter in the US is a 55 year old man. Considering the life expectancy of a man in the U.S. is currently age 75, then these numbers do not bode well for the sport.
The future of hunting, fishing and shooting sports in our country depends on getting new blood (no pun intended) involved and into the field. I think the FSHuntress blog was a great place to recognize the women who do hunt, encourage new women hunters to get into the sport and to foster a dialogue among men and women who share similar interests. I am sad to see it go.