Syracuse.com - Surging gun/ammo sales impacts federal wildlife restoration fund

[HuntingNY-News]

A 75-year-old program finances wildlife projects with revenue collected from a federal excise taxes on firearms.

The recent rush by gun enthusiasts to buy firearms ammunition could have a surprising consequence: millions more dollars to protect pheasants, deer and other wildlife, according to a recent story the Pew Charitable Trust's website covering state and consumer initiatives.

"A 75-year-old program finances wildlife projects with revenue collected from a federal excise taxes on firearms. The Wildlife Restoration Fund has sent billions of dollars to states over the years, helping them buy, develop and maintain land for wildlife management.

"Now, at a time of major belt-tightening for state environmental programs, the surge in gun sales across the U.S., spurred by fears of a legislative crackdown on some firearms, represents one bright spot for wildlife officials," the story notes.

New York State is slated to receive more than $10 million from the federal fund.

Read the full story..

View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog