Beware of Reporters

I should mention we sought out a positive reporter also and he did a very fine job. It is the over friendly reporter seeking you out that should raise the red flag.

I feel we should all be willing to be an advocate for our industry.  Yes we should be always watchful for a reporter who has an agenda against the industry.  It is imperative for those of us involved in the deer business to educate the public about our industry and our production and humane harvest practices rather than allowing activists or the Fish and Game to be the only voice heard.  In America the public has little knowledge of our business and at this time only know what they have seen or heard in the media which for the most part has all been bad.  Be proud of what you do and raise and tell all the people you know or meet about the industry because most people are interested in deer.  By public exposure of our industry in a good light from the people who love and raise these animals we should prevail.

I would say that in general terms, reporters that seek you out are usually trouble. Local reporters you know or people that have a resume of nice outdoor articles may be fine. And of course articles initiated by ourselves are usually good.


 


I certainly agree we need to have a campaign to get out the positive aspect of hunting behind high fence. It is such a wonderful atmosphere and experience! As an industry that is our weakest trait. We are good at so many things but poor at spreading the word and advertising the experience at our ranches. As I've said before in these forums. Our fate will not be decided by those for us or those against us. It will be decided by the 80% majority that know nothing about us.


 


I am so glad to see the ACA start on a positive PR campaign. Money should have been put towards this 10 years ago.  But lets not blame anyone! Its nobody's fault. As an industry we have simply ignored our responsibility to spread the word. We really just never realized the importance. So lets kick it in gear and get the word out. First we have to educate Missouri, then we move on to other states. Thanks again to all that are helping! This thread started as "Beware of Reporters" so I'll end by again reminding everyone to be careful. Ask questions, google and find out the purpose of the story. If you are not sure, ask an attorney or your state leaders. Better safe than sorry!