By David Kline
The Education Department at Stroud Water Research Center recently received a $2,000 grant from the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund. Thanks to the generosity of Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s customers, the Outdoor Fund supports programs and initiatives that connect new audiences to the outdoors, which aligns nicely with several of the Stroud Center’s ongoing education program initiatives.
The grant is being used to acquire fishing equipment and supplement boating supplies for our Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission–funded education programs that are designed to increase the number of active anglers and boaters in Pennsylvania through recruitment, retention, and reactivation (R3).
Stroud Center Assistant Director of Education Tara Muenz and Watershed Education Specialist David Kline participated in a shopping spree with employees at Cabela’s in Hamburg, Pennsylvania.
Kline said, “The staff at Cabela’s were incredibly helpful. They assisted in reviewing our shopping list and provided advice and expertise in selecting the equipment we needed to outfit our R3 fishing program. We were able to get all of the tackle that we need to lead many upcoming programs, including hooks, artificial bait, two tackle boxes, practice plugs for developing casting skills, swivels, lures, and nets.”
The Education Department now has enough angling supplies to host two simultaneous fishing programs.
Additional supplies purchased with the generous donation included safety equipment and boating supplies to support on-the-water fishing and canoeing programs. These immersive outdoor experiences seek to expand opportunities and interest in outdoor activities for underserved audiences who may not have access to introductory programs to learn about fishing and canoeing, as well as youth groups, Scouts, and schools.
“Our goal is to connect our audiences to the wonders of nature and inspire the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts who will care for and conserve our natural resources,” said Kline.
Keep an eye on our events page to learn about upcoming fishing and canoeing programs, and look for our Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s banner at our events! Learn more about the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund.
