AFTCO has a long-standing history of supporting conservation efforts by donating 10 percent of company profits every year since 1973 through it’s 10% Pledge. Historically the efforts were focused on saltwater related causes, but in the last year AFTCO has made tremendous efforts to broaden it’s efforts by giving back to freshwater fisheries in a partnership with B.A.S.S. Nation.
In 2018, AFTCO launched the AFTCO x B.A.S.S. Nation Conservation Grant Program and is excited to carry on the program for it’s second year in 2019. The program was kicked off recently at the B.A.S.S. Conservation Summit held during the GEICO Bassmaster Classic in Knoxville, Tenn.
Grants ranging up to $5,000 will be awarded to the best proposals. Funding will be available for a broad range of conservation-related projects for B.A.S.S. Nation states, clubs, high school or college teams. Qualified projects must directly involve youth in such a way as to teach the importance of resource stewardship and the leadership role that anglers play as conservationists. Each project must have an endorsement of the local fisheries management agency, and work to accomplish goals of mutual benefit. The project must have an evaluation component to determine success. A project may be part of a larger project and working with partners is strongly encouraged.
“I have admired AFTCO’s commitment to conservation for many years,” said B.A.S.S. Conservation Director Gene Gilliland, “and I am very glad to see them step up with these B.A.S.S. Nation grants as they dive into the freshwater bass market. Bill Shedd and his family, the entire company, understand the importance of grass roots efforts to protect and enhance our fishery resources.”
The application deadline is May 15th, 2019, with an announcement of the winners at the annual fishing industry trade show, ICAST, in July. You can access the B.A.S.S. Nation Conservation Grant Application here.
AFTCO also plans to continue its support of B.A.S.S. banquets through the donation of performance fishing shirts, gift cards and more. Contact matthew@aftco.com for more details on banquet support.
All questions about the program or application process should be directed to B.A.S.S. Conservation Director Gene Gilliland: ggilliland@bassmaster.com.
