    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 40, Number 40 (Monday, October 4, 2004)]
    [Pages 2150-2151]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Proclamation 7822--National Hunting and Fishing Day, 2004

     September 24, 2004

     By the President of the United States

     of America

     A Proclamation

        America is a land of majestic beauty, and we take pride in our
    wildlife, forests, mountains, lakes, rivers, and coastlines. Outdoor
    recreation is an important part of our Nation's heritage. On National
    Hunting and Fishing Day, we celebrate the remarkable progress we have
    made in conserving our environment and recognize those who have worked
    to conserve our natural resources.
        America's hunters and anglers represent the great spirit of our
    country and are among our Nation's foremost conservationists. These
    citizens have worked to protect habitat and restore fish and wildlife
    populations. They volunteer their time, talents, and energy to countless
    conservation projects, because they recognize the importance of
    maintaining the natural abundance of our country for future generations.
        My Administration is committed to achieving a cleaner, safer, and
    healthier environment for all Americans, including our hunters and
    anglers. My Administration has expanded opportunities to hunt and fish
    at national wildlife refuges and improved habitat on public and private
    lands. We have cut phosphorus releases into our rivers and streams, and
    I signed the Healthy Forests Restoration Act to help protect our forests
    from the risk of wildfires.
        Americans are blessed to live amid many wonders of nature, and we
    have a responsibility to be good stewards of the land. I commend all who
    advance conservation and help our citizens enjoy the benefits of our
    environment. These efforts ensure that our national heritage remains a
    source of pride for our citizens, our communities, and our Nation.
        Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
    laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 25, 2004, as
    National Hunting and Fishing Day. I call upon the people of the United
    States

    [[Page 2151]]

    to join me in recognizing the contributions of America's hunters and
    anglers, and all those who work to conserve our Nation's fish and
    wildlife resources.
        In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth
    day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
    ninth.
                                                    George W. Bush

     [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., October 1,
    2004]

    Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on October
    4. This item was not received in time for publication in the appropriate
    issue.