Pheasants

This past weekend I attended the annual "Pheasant Fest" (www.pheasantfest.org) with my brother and sister-in-law. This event is hosted by Pheasants Forever, Inc. (PF) and was held in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Now I know the "Earth is our Mother" environmental crowd will probably attack my decision to attend this event but let me shed some light on what exactly PF is focused on in terms of the environment. Essentially PF raises money nationally and via its local chapter network for the creation of "habitat" where pheasants can live and breed so that the population increases. Yes indeed the selfish motivation here is to increase pheasant populations to benefit the hunters who pursue this birds. Finally if you were wondering -- yes -- pheasant does taste like chicken!!

From the look of the auditorium was this event was held it was clear this event was well-attended. Additionally, the exhibitor space was filled with vendors including -- automobiles, dog training gear, clothing, hunting lodges, and jerky!!! I even spent some time talking with US Congressman John Kline - a taxpayer hero given his recent pledge to reject the practice of "earmarks" who was making the rounds.

Bottom line - the conservation work that PF accomplishes via its members' dues and fundraising does more good for the environment that a whole host of groups like Friends of the Earth.

Hunt on,

Todd