Faces Behind Camo at the Capitol

Idaho’s Camo at the Capitol event is in its second year and continues to bring together sportsman and wildlife groups from across the state for a day of advocacy and education. This year for the first time, the public is also invited to attend. Through this event, individuals are able to learn about the legislative process, meet their representatives and senators, and network with other conservation organizations from across the state. This year, both new and returning groups that will be attending. Here’s a quick snapshot of a few of those groups.

Rusty Kramer - Idaho Trappers Association

Rusty Kramer is president of the Idaho Trappers Association.  He attended the Camo at the Capitol event last year and felt it was a great way to bring the various sporting groups together. 

“I try to come to events like this to build awareness about our sport with the public. I found it particularly useful to meet with lawmakers at the reception at the end of the day. It gave us a chance to really talk about the issues that  are important to us,” said Kramer.

Kramer said although various sporting groups may not agree on every issue, Camo at the Capitol helps sportsmen and women join forces on critical issues such as ensuring access and promoting robust wildlife populations.

“We need to stick up for each other when there are anti-hunting bills and we need to speak out. If we don’t do it, the other side will win.”

Mark Harbaugh - Henry’s Fork Wildlife Alliance

Mark Harbaugh is a licensed fishing guide, bird hunter and lifelong conservationist. He’s also a board member of the Henry’s Fork Wildlife Alliance, a group dedicated to protecting healthy wildlife populations in Freemont County just west of Yellowstone National Park.  Initially formed to advocate for wildlife migration crossings when a nearby highway project was proposed, the Alliance’s mission also includes public education about general wildlife issues as the population of Island Park grows.

“We’re a group of naturalists, wildlife enthusiasts, hunters and anglers who care deeply about our natural surroundings. We want to make sure that the wildlife we enjoy today remain healthy and abundant for future generations,” said Harbaugh.

Harbaugh is looking forward to attending his first Camo at the Capitol in Boise. His goal is to meet lawmakers and talk to them about how critical wildlife crossings are for both wildlife and motorists.

“Wyoming has built some innovative crossings. It makes sense for Idaho to do the same,” said Rockefeller. “I know there’s going to be a big learning curve to get people to understand why this is so important, but we have to start somewhere.”