Season 2: Episode 10: National Archery In The Schools Program With Tommy Floyd Connecting With Conservation podcast

31:31

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Cucaruto sit down with Brandon Maddox, founder and CEO of Silencer Central—the largest silencer dealer in the United States. Brandon shares his unique journey from pharmacist to leading the suppressor industry, making the purchase process simple and accessible nationwide. We bust common myths about suppressors, explore their benefits for hunting, shooting sports, and hearing protection, and discuss why they’re embraced by conservation-minded shooters around the world. Brandon also reveals how Silencer Central partners with conservation groups, donating millions in products to support wildlife habitat, public lands, and hunting heritage. Plus, hear his thoughts on upcoming legislation that could reshape suppressor ownership in America, his own hunting adventures, and the launch of new products like the Banish shotgun suppressor. If you’re curious about how suppressors work, their role in modern conservation, and the easiest way to get one delivered to your door, this episode is for you. #Suppressors #Hunting #Conservation #SilencerCentral #BanishSuppressors #Firearms #WildlifeConservation #ConnectingWithConservation #HearingProtection #OutdoorStewards #WildlifeManagementInstitute…

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 33: Selling the Outdoors: Matt Whitman Conservation and Connecting with Consumers 29:05

10 days ago29:05

29:05

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, we sit down with Matt Whitman, Vice President of Marketing for American Outdoor Products, to explore how outdoor brands connect with today’s consumers—and what that means for the future of conservation. Matt shares insight from years of experience leading marketing strategy for well-known outdoor gear and apparel companies, and how those brands position themselves in a crowded marketplace. We discuss the importance of authenticity in outdoor messaging, how companies navigate trends like sustainability and access, and why brand loyalty often stems from more than just product quality. From freeze-dried meals to lifestyle branding, Matt offers a behind-the-scenes look at how outdoor products are marketed—and how that marketing can support broader conservation goals.…

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 32: Rethinking Conservation: Tony Wasley on Wildlife Policy and the Public Trust 36:35

18 days ago36:35

36:35

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation , hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Cucaruto sit down with Tony Wasley—former Director of the Nevada Department of Wildlife and current President and CEO of the Wildlife Management Institute (WMI). The conversation dives deep into the roots and evolution of North American conservation, the challenges of outdated funding models, the need for broader public engagement, and the launch of a new initiative to define conservation’s next 50 years. Tony shares insights on his personal journey in wildlife management, the shifting role of public trust in conservation, and how modern issues like technology, habitat loss, and relevancy are shaping the future. Whether you’re a hunter, angler, policymaker, or simply passionate about the outdoors, this episode sheds light on why conservation affects us all—and what we can do to protect our natural heritage.…

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 31: How Hunters Are Fighting Hunger in America with Josh Wilson of FHFH. 34:14

25 days ago34:14

34:14

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation , hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Cucaruto welcome Josh Wilson, Executive Director of Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry (FHFH) . Josh shares the powerful story behind this national ministry—founded by his father in 1997—and its mission to connect hunters with families in need through donated wild game. From humble beginnings in Maryland to impacting over 30 states, FHFH has provided nearly 24 million meals and counting. We explore the origins of the program, its spiritual inspiration, and the surprising public health benefits of wild game like venison. Josh also discusses the logistics of meat donation, the growing need for high-quality protein in food-insecure households, and how you—whether you’re a hunter or a supporter—can get involved. 🎧 Whether you’re passionate about conservation, faith, or feeding the hungry, this is one conversation you won’t want to miss.…

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 30: Fair Chase & Fighting Poaching: Inside Boone & Crockett with Tony Schoonen. 34:51

5 weeks ago34:51

34:51

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Cucaruto sit down with Tony Schoonen, CEO of the Boone and Crockett Club, America’s oldest wildlife conservation organization founded by Theodore Roosevelt. Tony takes us on a journey through the club’s storied history — from pioneering the National Forest Service and National Wildlife Refuge System to their renowned records program that showcases the success of North American conservation. We dive into critical topics like fair chase hunting ethics, the growing challenges of modern technology in the field, and Boone & Crockett’s groundbreaking “Poach & Pay” initiative aimed at tackling wildlife crime and protecting public trust resources. The discussion also shines a light on the club’s efforts to safeguard public lands from unnecessary sales and to ensure that conservation stays front and center in wildlife policy. Whether you’re a hunter, angler, wildlife enthusiast, or simply love the outdoors, this episode underscores the vital role ethical sportsmen and women play in sustaining healthy wildlife populations and habitats for generations to come.…

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 29: Ruger: How America’s Largest Firearms Manufacturer Supports Conservation 35:16

6 weeks ago35:16

35:16

Join us for this episode of Connecting with Conservation as we sit down with Todd Seyfert, President & CEO of Ruger and Marlin, to discuss how the largest firearms manufacturer in the U.S. contributes to state-based fish and wildlife conservation through excise taxes. Todd shares his personal journey from growing up hunting in Wisconsin to leading iconic American outdoor brands. We explore Ruger’s investments in youth shooting sports, environmental health, and product innovation — all of which help fund habitat restoration, public lands, and outdoor recreation for everyone. Whether you’re a hunter, angler, target shooter, or simply enjoy the outdoors, you’ll learn how manufacturers like Ruger & Marlin are critical partners in North America’s unique conservation funding model.…

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 28: How Social Media is Changing Conservation with Chuck R. of Open Source Defense 33:51

7 weeks ago33:51

33:51

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, we sit down with Chuck R, founder of Open Source Defense and a longtime tech industry leader from Google and Facebook. We explore how technology and cultural perspectives around firearms shape modern wildlife conservation funding. Chuck shares fascinating stories from taking over a thousand Silicon Valley colleagues to the range for their first experience, discusses how Open Source Defense works to demystify responsible gun ownership, and explains why most of today’s conservation funding actually comes from recreational shooting — not hunting.…

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Special Alert: Public Lands Sell Off! 1:51

7 weeks ago1:51

1:51

Your public lands under management of the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management are in the crosshairs of congress. Give a listen to what several conservation community leaders think about this misguided approach.

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 27: Dustin Wallace talks about Faxon's contribution to conservation. 34:39

8 weeks ago34:39

34:39

In this episode of Connecting with Conservation, hosts Jon Gassett and Jim Curcuruto sit down with Dustin Wallace, Director of Sales & Marketing at Faxon to explore the fascinating intersection between American manufacturing, innovation, and wildlife conservation funding. Dustin shares Faxon’s journey from a machining operation to one of the most respected barrel manufacturers in the country. He discusses their commitment to quality, agility in a shifting market, and how the excise taxes on sales directly support state fish and wildlife agencies through the Pittman-Robertson Act. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how companies like Faxon help sustain outdoor recreation and habitat conservation—while also creating reliable, precision-built products for sportsmen and women.…

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 26: Talking High Performance Rimfires with Scott Volquartsen 28:28

9 weeks ago28:28

28:28

Enjoy plinking or are you more of a competition type? This week on Connecting with Conservation we talk with Scott Volquartsen, the owner and innovator of high-end accessories and upgrades for your favorite rimfire calibers. Give it a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 25: Hornady's Commitment to Conservation with Seth Swerczek 31:10

9 weeks ago31:10

31:10

Did you know that Hornady is one of the largest U.S. based manufacturer of hunting products? Today on Connecting with Conservation we talk with Hornady's Marketing Communications Manager Seth Swerczek about their commitment to wildlife conservation funded thru the federal excise tax.

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 24: Beth Shimanski, Vice President of Marketing with Savage Arms Inc. 32:48

11 weeks ago32:48

32:48

Today on Connecting with Conservation, we talk with a major excise tax payer in the conservation arena. Beth Shimanski of Savage Arms, Inc. talks about some of the unique aspects of their business model. Give it a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 23: Executive Director Ryan Brown talks about Virginia Wildlife. 36:52

11 weeks ago36:52

36:52

Today on Connecting with Conservation we discuss all that Virginia has to offer in the form of wildlife-associated outdoor recreation. Ryan Brown, Executive Director of the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources joins us to talk bears, elk, and other iconic Virginia species. Give it a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 22: World and National Champion USPSA Competitor Julie Golob 29:40

12 weeks ago29:40

29:40

Today we speak with a USPSA National and World Champion competitor, veteran, coach, author, chef, and mom. Julie Golob is all of these and more. Hear her talk about her favorite outdoor pursuits that also help support wildlife conservation. Give it a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 21: Buying and Selling Outdoor Products with Josh Perrone & Allen Forkner 36:25

14 weeks ago36:25

36:25

On this episode of Connecting with Conservation we talked about with Josh Perrone and Allen Forkner about buying and selling outdoor products essential to your favorite recreational pursuits. Josh is the Advocacy Relations Manager and Allen is the Brand Public Relations Manager for one of the largest online brokers of essential outdoor products. Give it a listen!…

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 20: Effects of Tariffs on Angling Equipment with Glenn Hughes 32:57

14 weeks ago32:57

32:57

Today on Connecting with Conservation we talk with Glenn Hughes, President and CEO of American Sportfishing Association. Glenn updates us on the potential impacts of tariffs on imported fishing gear, the upcoming ICAST trade show, and the value of partnerships.

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 19: Becoming a conservationist with Joshua Crumpton 33:14

16 weeks ago33:14

33:14

Today on Connecting with Conservation, we talk with Joshua Crumpton. After becoming an adult-onset conservationist, Joshua founded Spoke Hollow Outfitters near Austin, Texas. On his ranch, he teaches newcomers about locally sourced protein and how that ties in with conservation. Give it a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 18: A conservation icon sports afield magazine with editor-in-chief Diana Rupp. 33:01

17 weeks ago33:01

33:01

Did you know that the conservation movement in the late 1800s was largely driven by print magazines featuring outdoor-related activities? Today on Connecting with Conservation, we speak with Diana Rupp who is the Editor-in-Chief for Sports Afield magazine which was founded in 1887. Not only one of the oldest sporting magazines in the U.S., Sports Afield was instrumental in kickstarting the early conservation movement. Give it a listen!…

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 17: How The Kinetic Group TKG Supports Wildlife Conservation with Jon Zinnel 33:00

18 weeks ago33:00

33:00

Today we discuss conservation funding with Jon Zinnel of The Kinetic Group. TKG is one of the largest payers of federal excise tax in the U.S., all of which goes directly to funding wildlife restoration, management, hunting land acquisition, public ranges, and other wildlife-associated projects. Give it a listen!…

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 16: Traditions Muzzleloaders with Marketing Director Alison Hall 29:53

19 weeks ago29:53

29:53

On this episode, we speak with Alison Hall, who is the marketing director for Traditions Muzzleloaders about some of the newer ignition systems that they have pioneered and brought to market. Give us a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 15: Chasing turkeys with Christian Hogg from Fiocchi USA. 33:04

20 weeks ago33:04

33:04

On this episode, we talk hunting with Christian Hogg, the Director of Marketing for Fiocchi USA, one of the larger partners in conservation funding through the federal excise tax program. Today we discuss new techniques and equipment used in the pursuit of wild turkeys. Give it a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 14: Accessing and recreating on military lands with Sean Cross of iSportsman 30:16

21 weeks ago30:16

30:16

The military is the third largest public landowner in the U.S. but few people understand how to gain access. Learn how you can lawfully enter military properties to enjoy your favorite outdoor pursuits! Today we speak with Sean Cross, Chief Contracting Officer for iSportsman. His company is the gatekeeper to military base access by the public. Give us a listen!…

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 13: Managing your wildlife using predator control with Jason Wisniewski 36:35

22 weeks ago36:35

36:35

On this episode, of Connecting with Conservation we visit with Jason Wisniewski, President of Furtakers of America. Jason talks about the benefits of using predator removal to complement your wildlife management activities. Jason's endeavors in the world of predators is also a family activity. Give us a listen!…

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2 Episode 12 Mule Deer & Mexican Wolves with Jim Heffelfinger 35:30

23 weeks ago35:30

35:30

On this episode, we travel to the southwestern deserts and brush country with Jim Heffelfinger, Research Scientist for Arizona Game and Fish Department. Jim talks with us about mule deer migrations and Mexican wolf recovery. Give it a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 11: Edged Hunting Tools with CJ Buck 33:59

23 weeks ago33:59

33:59

On this week's episode of Connecting with Conservation, we speak with CJ Buck. CJ is the current CEO of a knife making company spanning 6 generations in the U.S. Join us to hear about how his company sets itself apart from the rest of the outdoor cutlery manufacturers.

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 10: National Archery in the Schools Program with Tommy Floyd 33:30

25 weeks ago33:30

33:30

On this episode, we visit with Dr. Tommy Floyd, President of the National Archery in the Schools Program. This program was designed to teach children target archery skills in the classroom and has an unblemished safety record for over 20 years. Give it a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 9: High School Fishing Tournaments with Reece Martin 27:16

26 weeks ago27:16

27:16

On this episode of Connecting with Conservation we talk to Reece Martin about high school fishing tournaments and how they honed his passion for angling. Give us a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 8: Fishing on Lake Hartwell with Neil Paul. 26:39

27 weeks ago26:39

26:39

On today's episode of Connecting with Conservation, we speak with Neil Paul, Executive Director of VisitAnderson.com about his novel approach to tournament angling on lake Hartwell in South Carolina. Give it a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 7: Fish & Wildlife Licensing with Chris Willard of PayIt Outdoors. 26:56

28 weeks ago26:56

26:56

Licensing and permit systems for state fish and wildlife agencies has come into the technology age. Gone are the days of purchasing a paper license at the local sporting goods store. ?Now it can be don from your phone or computer anywhere in the world. Learn about the added benefits of electronic licensing systems.…

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 6: Protecting your hearing with Dave Matheny, CEO of Silencer Shop 32:10

28 weeks ago32:10

32:10

On this episode, we visit with Dave Matheny, the CEO of Silencer Shop, to talk about keeping your hearing protected when participating in outdoor-related activities. You owe it to your ears to give this a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2 Episode 5: Safari Club International with Chris Tymeson from Safari Club International 46:15

29 weeks ago46:15

46:15

Today we speak with Chris Tymeson, Western State & Local Liaison for Safari Club International to learn more about the conservation efforts of their organization. Give us a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2 Episode 4: Finding the Outdoor Equipment You Need with Kevin Wilson of Davidson's Inc 33:32

30 weeks ago33:32

33:32

This week, we join Kevin Wilson, the Dealer Communications Manager for Davidson's Inc. to learn about some new ways to find those hard to locate outdoor items that you need. Give us a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 3: Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation with Dave Chanda 55:17

30 weeks ago55:17

55:17

On this episode, we talk with Dave Chanda, Executive Director for the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation about the efforts that they are working with to recruit, retain, and reactivate more anglers and boaters. Give us a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 2: Alabama Wildlife Management with Chuck Sykes 40:10

30 weeks ago40:10

40:10

Have you ever wondered about the issues that your state wildlife agency faces when managing your wildlife? Today we talk with Chuck Sykes, Director of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, about the usual (and unusual) business of running a state agency. Give us a listen!

Connecting with Conservation

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Season 2: Episode 1: Waterfowl and Wetlands Conservation with Karen Waldrop of Ducks Unlimited. 31:39

32 weeks ago31:39

31:39

On this episode of Connecting with Conservation we talk with the Chief Conservation Officer for Ducks Unlimited, Dr. Karen Waldrop, about the importance of wetland conservation for waterfowl and many other species of wildlife. We explore the unique funding model and challenges for managing species at a continental scale. Give it a listen!…

Connecting with Conservation

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Episode 11: Kentucky Elk Restoration with Lou Cornicelli 45:52

33 weeks ago45:52

45:52

Today we talk with Lou Cornicelli of Southwick Associates about elk restoration in the Bluegrass State. When the project started in the late 1990s, Lou was the Regional Game Biologist for Northeast Utah and was the primary supplier of more than 1000 elk that we trapped and relocated to their new home in Kentucky. Give it a listen.…

Connecting with Conservation

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Episode 12: Recruiting New Conservationists with Jeff Rawlinson 49:59

33 weeks ago49:59

49:59

On this episode, we talk with Jeff Rawlinson from National Archery in the Schools Program (formerly with Nebraska Game, Fish, and Parks) about recruiting are wildlife conservationists. Give us a listen.

Connecting with Conservation

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Episode 8: Recruiting Women into the Outdoors with Sam Pedder from PayIt Outdoors 26:55

35 weeks ago26:55

26:55

On this episode, we dive into the area of recruiting females into the hunting world. Samantha Pedder has worked in this area for a decade with a focus on getting more women in the outdoors. Give it a listen.

Connecting with Conservation

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Episode 9: RCBS and Reloading with Joel Hodgdon 31:06

35 weeks ago31:06

31:06

On this episode, we speak with Joel Hodgdon of RCBS about learning new skills that can help you with your outdoor pursuits, while at the same time contributing funding for wildlife conservation. Give it a listen.

Connecting with Conservation

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Episode 10: Talking wildlife conservation with Tom Taylor 44:43

35 weeks ago44:43

44:43

On this episode, we speak with Tom Taylor about his organization's contributions to wildlife conservation in the United States. As one of the larger sources of conservation funding, their story is compelling. Give it a listen.

Connecting with Conservation

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Episode 6: Optics Planet with Alex Royzen 33:29

37 weeks ago33:29

33:29

On this episode of Connecting with Conservation, we speak with Alex Royzen, who is the Managing Director and Head of Supply Chain Management with Optics Planet. If you have ever searched for that hard-to-find AR part in the correct color or that elusive piece of gear that you can't seem to find anywhere else, you might want to give this one a listen.…

Connecting with Conservation

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Episode 7: Low Country Waterfowl with Dave Wielicki of the South Carolina Waterfowl Association 25:57

37 weeks ago25:57

25:57

On this episode of Connecting with Conservation we talk with Dave Wielicki, Executive Director of the South Carolina Waterfowl Association. South Carolina is somewhat of a sleeper state when it comes to ducks and geese, but the coastal region of the state contains many areas of prime waterfowl habitat. Dave talks about this as well as the efforts to get more youth in the outdoors. Give it a listen.…

Connecting with Conservation

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Episode 5: South Carolina DNR with Emily Cope 34:46

38 weeks ago34:46

34:46

Today we talk with Emily Cope, Deputy Director for the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, about building and maintaining the industry relations is South Carolina. These excise taxes are a significant source of conservation funding that are fundamental to supporting the outstanding fish and wildlife resources found in the Palmetto State.…

Connecting with Conservation

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Episode 4: Hunting Ammunition with Fiocchi USA and Christian Hogg 33:04

38 weeks ago33:04

33:04

Today we talk hunting ammunition with Christian Hogg, the Director of Marketing for Fiocchi USA. Fiocchi USA is one of the nation's largest ammunition manufacturers and importers, and as such, is one of the larger partners in conservation funding through the federal excise tax program.

Connecting with Conservation

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Episode 3: Industry Outreach in Arizona with Scott Lavin 40:28

45 weeks ago40:28