TSLN S2E8 | Joel Pedersen, President/ CEO of Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership

This podcast episode of "The Sporting Life Notebook" features host Derell Smith in conversation with Joel Peterson, the president and CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (TRCP). The discussion covers Peterson's background and his role at TRCP, the historical significance and current work of the organization in conservation policy, and the importance of collaboration, particularly with groups like the Minority Outdoor Alliance. Smith and Peterson emphasize the need for a unified voice in advocating for conservation and access to public lands for hunting and fishing. Additionally, the episode touches on upcoming initiatives, the value of sportsmen's engagement in policy, and the personal connection to the sporting life.

Main Themes:

1. Partnership and Collaboration for Conservation: The central theme revolves around the vital partnership between the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (TRCP) and the Minority Outdoor Alliance (MOA), highlighting its significance for both organizations and the broader community of sportsmen and conservationists. The episode emphasizes the power of a unified voice in advocating for conservation policies.
2. The Mission and Evolution of TRCP: Joel Peterson outlines TRCP's core mission of guaranteeing all Americans quality places to hunt and fish by unifying and amplifying the sportsman's voice. He also discusses the organization's history, its policy centers, and its strategic direction for the future, emphasizing its nonpartisan approach and its commitment to adapting to the changing landscape of conservation.
3. Importance of Broadening Engagement in Conservation: Both Smith and Peterson stress the need to broaden participation in conservation beyond traditional demographics. They discuss the importance of engaging minority communities and younger generations, highlighting the diverse opportunities available in the outdoor and conservation sectors.
4. Current Conservation Policy Initiatives and Challenges: Peterson provides an overview of key policy initiatives TRCP is currently working on at the federal level, including access (MAP Waters, MAP Oceans), public lands protection (Public Lands and Public Hands Act, Habitat Connectivity on Western Lands Act), the Farm Bill, and safeguarding special places like Bristol Bay and the Brooks Range. He also touches upon the challenges of a shifting political landscape and the need for persistence in achieving legislative goals.
5. The Personal Connection to the Sporting Life and Conservation: Both hosts share their personal journeys into the outdoors and conservation, emphasizing the intrinsic value of these activities and the responsibility to protect these opportunities for future generations. Peterson highlights how his time in the field grounds his work in policy and advocacy.
6. Call to Action and Engagement: The episode concludes with a strong call to action for listeners to get involved in conservation efforts through various means, including supporting organizations like TRCP and MOA, contacting their representatives, staying informed about policy issues, and recognizing their role in contributing to conservation through their sporting activities.