A national archery organization that provides key support to the Department of Natural Resources' activities related to archery and bow hunting has received a Partner in Conservation Award from the DNR and Natural Resources Commission (NRC). The award was presented at the NRC meeting yesterday in Lansing.

The Archery Trade Association (ATA), based in Utah, provides core funding and direction for two foundations - ArrowSport and the Bowhunting Preservation Alliance (BPA). The foundations were created in 2002 to increase funding potential and better focus the industry on promoting and growing the sports of archery and bow hunting.

"These foundations have been critical partners to the DNR in archery range development projects and in support of our Archery in the Schools program, which provides children with the opportunity to learn an individual sport and puts them in touch with the outdoors," said DNR Director Rebecca Humphries. "Archery in the Schools is an important part of our outreach and education efforts, and we aim to have 300 schools statewide enrolled in the program by 2008."

The financial support of the foundations has enabled the DNR to hire a coordinator for the Archery in the Schools program. Michigan is the 11th state to adapt the National Archery in the Schools program. Currently, 53 schools in 27 counties are involved in the DNR?s Archery in the Schools program.

"ATA, ArrowSport and the Bowhunting Preservation Alliance have been instrumental in connecting hunting and conservation with local communities, archery retailers, conservation clubs, archery organizations and schools," Humphries said. "Their commitment and passion have helped grow and protect the cherished sports of archery and bow hunting in Michigan and in the nation."

The Partners in Conservation Awards are given out to individuals, organizations and government officials who assist the DNR through volunteer work in the areas of conservation and natural resources management. Nominations are submitted by DNR employees.