Hunting important part of Iowa's heritage, economy

Most of us know that hunting is an extremely important part of Iowa's heritage but what a lot of people don't understand is that hunting and the shooting sports generate more than $350 million each year in the Iowa economy. These hunter dollars benefit area businesses and they also create jobs, more than 6,000 of them across the state.

I own Top Gun Kennel along with my wife, Jodie, and as a family business owner who caters to hunters, I see and talk to sportsmen and know firsthand the impacts that the sale of hunting licenses, supplies, gear, gas and lodging has on the economy in Iowa.

I recently decided to become a partner and co-chair of a new organization called Hunting Works for Iowa. It's their mission and now mine as well to help people understand that our economy needs hunters and, because of the shakiness of it, maybe now more than ever.

With hunting season just around the corner, it's nice to know that our local economies will be getting a much-needed shot in the arm as hunters open their wallets. I would like to thank all of the Iowa hunters for their help in strengthening our local and statewide economy and encourage everyone to visit our website, www.huntingworksforia.com, to learn how they can get involved in this great organization. Have a safe season.

Steve Ries

Central City