WRD Fact Sheet
Wildlife Resources Division Mission
To conserve, enhance and promote Georgia's fish and wildlife resources and outdoor heritage through science-driven research, management, regulation and education.
Economics of Outdoor Recreation
Hunters, anglers, boaters and wildlife enthusiasts spend MILLIONS OF DOLLARS each day in Georgia
FISHING
1.2 million resident anglers fish in Georgia.* Anglers spend more than 8.7 million days a year on the water. Anglers in Georgia generate $1.3 billion in retail sales, with a $2.1
billion ripple effect each year. Fishing in Georgia is responsible for 15,644 jobs, $622 million in
salaries/wages/earnings, $109 million in state and local tax revenues, and $147 million in federal tax revenues.
*6 years old and up
HUNTING
630,000 people hunt in Georgia.* Hunters spend more than 9.9 million days a year in the field. Hunters account for $977 million in retail sales in Georgia, with a
$1.6 billion ripple effect each year, up $500 million since 2006. Hunting in Georgia is responsible for 23,996 jobs, $600 million in
salaries/wages/earnings, $106 million in state and local taxes, and $145 million in federal tax revenue.
*6 years old and up
WILDLIFE WATCHING
2.4 million residents and visitors annually participate in Georgia wildlife-watching activities.
On average, wildlife watchers spend $639 per person on food and lodging, transportation, equipment and supplies each year.
This group spends $1.8 billion annually in the state.
SHOOTING SPORTS
There are 660,000 target shooters in Georgia. Shooters account for $326 million in retail sales with a total
economic impact of $559 million. Shooting provides over $191 million in salaries. Shooting provides $40 million in state and local taxes and $48.5
in federal taxes each year. Our partnership with the North Georgia Mountains Authority
resulted in the development and construction of air-rifle and archery ranges at Unicoi and Georgia Veterans State Park. This partnership is providing recreational target shooting opportunities for the local community and for the over 1.2 million people who visit these parks annually.
SOURCES: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service 2011 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation, American Sportfishing Association, National Shooting Sports Foundation, Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies, Southwick Associates, Responsive Management 2011 & 2015 (Resident Participation In Freshwater and Saltwater Sport Fishing and Hunting in Georgia)
WILDLIFE RESOURCES Facts and Stats
104 Wildlife Management Areas with 68 wildlife technician positions who perform habitat and timber management activities
Opportunities on nearly 1 million acres of public lands
10 Public Fishing Areas with more than 2,200 acres of water open for fishing
10 Fish Hatcheries 152 Boat Ramps 7 Regional Education Centers 17 WRD Shooting Ranges 22 WRD Archery Ranges
Wildlife Resources Division reaches tens of thousands of children each year through: Outdoor Adventure Days Conservation Education Programs Kids Fishing & Hunting Events Hunter Education and more
Georgia is one of the most biologically diverse states in the nation, ranking: 2nd in amphibian species 3rd in freshwater fish species 7th in reptile species 7th in vascular plant species
SOURCE: NatureServe
The Outdoors GA app, free in Google Play or Apple store, has multiple uses, including purchasing and storing hunting and fishing licenses (for multiple people), finding
hunting and fishing areas, helping locate boat ramps, viewing regulations and allowing hunters to check their game harvest, even without cell service.
Revised October 2017
RESPONSIBLE MANAGEMENT
FY 17 Revenue Sources
Accountability
Wildlife Resources Division averages approximately $20 million in federal Sport Fish & Wildlife Restoration funds each year. These funds come from a federal tax on ammunition, guns, fishing equipment and motorboat fuel. To receive federal funds, Georgia must spend 100% of state revenue collected from hunting/fishing licenses on sport fish and wildlife management to benefit hunters and anglers.
The US Fish & Wildlife Service closely monitors WRD's programs. Together, these agencies ensure that funds generated by Georgia hunters and anglers -- state license revenue and federal funds -- are directed back to programs and projects that benefit sportsmen.
Other funds made up of license plate sales, donations, timber revenue, etc.
FY 17 Expenses
Hunting & Fishing License Increase
With the passage of HB 208 in 2017, hunting and fishing license fees increased for the first time since 1992.
How will the additional funds be used? All new revenue will be dedicated to supporting DNR's core mission.
How Will DNR Reinvest Revenue:
More Game Wardens
Increase services to citizens--Technical assistance with private lands, ponds, and clubs
Increased production of fish at state hatcheries for stocking public rivers, streams and reservoirs
Better access on wildlife management areas, public fishing areas, Georgia lakes and rivers
Improving opportunity--educational programs, habitat management, etc.
www.Georgiawildlife.com