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NRA's Hunter Services Department's ECHO Program
 The "Knoxville Guzzler," a 1994 project funded in part by a grant from the ECHO Program. This water catchment, a rainwater collection surface that collects water in a reservoir, serves a wildlife water source. | In cooperation with federal, state and private nonprofit agencies, the Environment, Conservation and Hunting Outreach (ECHO) Program works to advance conservation efforts, encourage hunter safety and ethics, and promote hunting as a beneficial and responsible use of our wildlife resources. ECHO projects include, but are not limited to: restoring and enhancing wildlife habitat for both game and non-game wildlife species, conservation education programs, improving hunting access and opportunities, and shooting range projects.
The NRA believes in the biologically sound management of our wildlife and other natural resources and in the respectful use and enjoyment of the land. We believe responsible and ethical actions are the duty of all who use the outdoors. In keeping with the goals of the NRA, we encourage and support all efforts to promote these ideals through innovative approaches such as the ECHO Program. The ECHO Program is based upon four principles:
Environment depends on outdoor enthusiasts understanding their contribution to the maintenance of a healthy, productive environment. Leave both public and private land in better condition than you found it. Set an example. Protect the natural environment for future generations to enjoy.
Conservation efforts assure quality hunting opportunities for future generations of Americans. Preserve our outdoor hunting heritage through the managed use of our wildlife and other natural resources.
Hunting is a beneficial and enjoyable use of our renewable wildlife resources. It is an American tradition to be passed on to generations to come. Promote our hunting heritage by sharing it with all who wish to take part.
Outreach is necessary to make a real and lasting difference. Strong alliances are the key. Join with like-minded individuals, clubs, conservation organizations, and government agencies to ensure the success of our efforts.
It's easy to participate in the NRA's ECHO Program. Develop your idea and choose a possible site. Then, contact the federal or state agency, private organization, or individiual responsible for managing the site to see if they would be interested in your project. The agency, organization, or individual may have suggestions for other sites or projects where help is needed. The NRA may provide guidance, technical assistance, and/or "seed" money to approved ECHO projects. If the NRA provides funding, matching funds are required from the participating agency, organization, or indivdiual. Persons or groups interested in developing ECHO projects should submit proposals to the NRA. Criteria for approval include: overall project quality, significance to NRA membership, public access, practical application, applicant's qualifications, and identified matching monies. Selected projects must relate to the goals, objectives, and interests of the National Rifle Association.
How To Make Things Happen
The NRA has no standard application form for ECHO projects. Rather, we ask that your proposal be submitted in the following typewritten format. Some of the following information may not apply to your particular project. However, providing as much of this information as possible increases the likelihood of NRA participation with your project. No project is too small.
- Cover Sheet (maximum one page)
In this order include the following information:
- Name and address of the organization or federal or state agency which will be the grant recipient
- Contact persons and titles of:
- Your organization
- Associated federal or state agency (USFS, USFWS, BLM, state wildlife agency)
- Other participating organizations
- Phone and fax numbers
- Project title
- One-paragraph description of the project
- Requested assistance (technical, networking, coordination, financial [indicate dollar amount])
- The period the grant will cover and a budget summary
- The cover sheet must be signed by the organization's chief executive officer or other official authorized to make legally binding agreements
- Narrative (maximum five one-sided single-spaced pages, excluding appendices)
- Organization information
- Brief summary of organization's history
- Brief statement of organization's missions and goals
- Description of current programs, activities, acccomplishments
- Purpose of grant
- Statement of needs to be addressed; description of target population and how they will benefit
- Description of project goals and objectives (measurable outcomes)
- Plans to accomplish these goals and objectives
- Names and qualifications of key project staff
- Timetable for implementation, if applicable
- Budget table including identified matching funds and how monies are to be spent
- Long-term strategies for funding of this project at the end of the grant period
- Evaluation
- Description of how success will be defined and measured
- Description of how NRA's contribution will be recognized (signage, media outreach etc.)
Don't Stop There
In addition to developing projects, individuals and organizations interested in the ECHO Program may participate by donating materials or services, or by making a financial commitment to the Program. If you are interested in making a contribution, which may be tax-deductible, contact the NRA Development Office at (703) 267-1133.
For more information, or to submit proposals, contact:
National Rifle Association of America
Hunter Services Department
11250 Waples Mill Road
Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone (703) 267-1516 |
