In this episode of the American Outdoor News Podcast we are speaking with Laird Harrberlin, the CEO of Safari Club International. Laird explained that Safari Club International (SCI) works to protect the freedom to hunt worldwide. SCI promotes wildlife conservation, ethical hunting practices, and global outdoor education. The term “safari” means a journey, not just African hunting. SCI’s mission is to protect hunting rights across all continents. Laird compared SCI’s role to the NRA, stressing the importance of membership in both organizations for hunters’ rights.

Laird and Chris discussed the challenges facing the global hunting community. They stressed the need for unity among hunters to counter anti-hunting campaigns. Laird warned that opponents often use emotional narratives and misleading data to influence policy. He cited polar bear hunting bans and the Cecil the lion controversy as key examples. Both agreed hunters must share factual, science-based narratives to protect sustainable hunting practices.

While addressing Industry Challenges and Policy Reform, Laird emphasized that infighting within the hunting community weakens advocacy efforts. He called for stronger collaboration between hunting organizations. Some groups, he noted, focus more on fundraising than real conservation achievements. Laird also discussed the need to modernize the Endangered Species Act. He believes science-based wildlife management should guide policy decisions, not emotion or politics. This approach would secure hunting’s future for generations.

Laird promoted the upcoming Safari Club International Convention in Nashville, February 18–22, 2024. He called it SCI’s largest fundraiser and networking event. The convention offers hunters, outfitters, and conservationists a chance to connect globally. Laird shared personal stories of his family’s involvement, showing the event’s significance. He encouraged all hunters to join SCI and directed listeners to the official SCI website for membership details.

http://SafariClub.org

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