Leslie M. Burger

Participation in Select Nature-based Recreational Activities by Rural Mississippi Youth

SEAFWA Journal Volume 7, March 2020
Wildlife Outstanding Technical Paper

Recruitment and retention of future conservationists are key issues for many natural resources agencies and organizations. Engaging chil-

dren in nature-based recreation may contribute to their future participation as adults. Because rural settings and rural cultures can support outdoor recreational engagement for youth, we investigated nature-based recreational habits of rural children through a convenience survey of 608 fifth grade students in eight northeastern Mississippi public and private schools across four counties. Survey results indicate fishing and hunting were the most...

The Role of Private Ponds in Recruiting the Next Generation of Anglers

SEAFWA Journal Volume 5, March 2018
Fisheries Outstanding Technical Paper

Angling participation has stagnated or declined in many regions, threatening the political and financial support for fisheries management. Angler recruitment programs aim to counteract these trends, but most are public programs targeting public water bodies. There are about 4.5 million small ponds and lakes in the United States, most of which are privately owned. These systems may play a major yet hidden role in angler recruitment. Using an online survey of avid pond owners and managers, we explored the ideas that private waters are providing youth angling opportunities, increasing fishing...