CONSERVATION CORNER

Wildlife Mississippi/Bass Pro Shops Partner For Conservation

by James L. Cummins

The Mississippi Fish and Wildlife Foundation, or Wildlife Mississippi as it is commonly called, and Bass Pro Shops are partnering for better fish and wildlife habitat in Mississippi.

In 1998, Mississippians of vision and dedication created Wildlife Mississippi so they could work more effectively for conservation. The Foundation is a low-overhead, no frills organization which seeks to protect, restore and enhance our fish, wildlife and plant resources. Wildlife Mississippi promotes an effective philosophy. It is based on three basic principles: 1) conservation incentives make a difference, 2) conservation should include private lands and 3) conservation is an important component of quality of life. A conservation philosophy containing effective and cost-efficient programs will improve Mississippi's fish, wildlife and plant resources for the future.

The mission of Bass Pro Shops is to be the leading merchant of outdoor recreational products, inspiring people to love, enjoy and conserve the great outdoors. Bass Pro Shops got its start in Springfield, Missouri in 1972. Bass Pro owns RedHead, which was founded in 1856; it is the oldest supplier of sporting apparel in the nation. In 1988, Bass Pro Shops opened Big Cedar Lodge on the shores of Table Rock Lake near Branson, Missouri. In 1993 their Fish and Wildlife Museum opened, showcasing wildlife and fish mounts, antique rods, reels and much more. In 2000, Wonders of Wildlife in Springfield opened with fresh- and saltwater aquariums, live animals in their native habitats, interactive nature displays and virtual reality games.

In a short period, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World has established itself as a cutting-edge innovator in the highly competitive world of outdoor retailing. Their unique approach, which includes cozy, hunting-lodge themed decor, large, comprehensive product displays and professional sales help that not only market the outdoor lifestyle, but live it as well, is often imitated but never duplicated.

Bass Pro Shops has chosen Wildlife Mississippi as a partner in conservation. Every time someone goes to the Wildlife Mississippi web site (www.wildlifemiss.org) and clicks on the Bass Pro Shops icon, they will automatically go to the Bass Pro Shops web site. For every sale that is referred through the Wildlife Mississippi web site, Bass Pro Shops will pay Wildlife Mississippi 5% of the sale for use on conservation projects in Mississippi. So, anytime you place an order from Bass Pro Shops, go through Wildlife Mississippi's web site. You will be able to get what you need and raise funds for conservation throughout Mississippi.

James L. Cummins is Executive Director of the Mississippi Fish and Wildlife Foundation in Stoneville, Mississippi. Known as "Wildlife Mississippi," the Foundation is a non-profit, conservation organization founded to conserve, restore and enhance fish, wildlife and plant resources throughout Mississippi. Their web site is www.wildlifemiss.org.