[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 39 (Monday, October 6, 2008)]
[Page 1272]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8295--National Hunting and Fishing Day, 2008

 September 26, 2008

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    From our rugged peaks and mountains to our shining seas, our Nation 
is blessed with remarkable natural treasures. These magnificent 
landscapes are places where families and friends can create lasting 
memories and enjoy the outdoors. On National Hunting and Fishing Day, 
our country honors the many contributions of America's hunters and 
anglers, who add to our heritage and keep our wildlife populations 
healthy and strong.
    Our Nation's sportsmen and women are among our foremost 
conservationists. They care deeply about our wildlife habitats, and they 
have contributed billions of dollars to wildlife restoration through the 
Pittman-Robertson Act, which is a levy on certain sporting goods. This 
investment has helped restore many species, including the American elk, 
black bear, and wild turkey. Through the Federal Waterfowl Stamp 
program, the conservation of habitats for migratory birds has been 
greatly improved. By protecting our Nation's wildlife, we can continue 
to advance the values of good stewardship.
    My Administration has created, protected, and restored millions of 
acres of wetlands. Through my Ocean Action Plan, we are protecting fish 
populations and marine habitat. I was pleased to amend Executive Order 
12962 to recognize the value of recreational fishing as a sustainable 
activity in Federal waters. We have also improved the health of millions 
of acres of forests under the Healthy Forests Restoration Act. This 
important legislation is helping to protect our public lands from the 
risk of catastrophic wildfires and contributes to a healthier 
environment for all Americans.
    On this special day, we remember our responsibility to preserve the 
great American landscape for future generations, and we celebrate the 
joy of hunting and fishing in the great outdoors.
     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 27, 2008, as 
National Hunting and Fishing Day. I call upon the people of the United 
States 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-sixth 
day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
third.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 11:15 a.m., September 
30, 2008]

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