Oklahoma’s anglers, hunters and sport shooters are big players when it comes to supporting the state’s economy and at the same time supporting outdoor recreation and natural resource conservation.
Outdoor enthusiasts created an impressive $5.8 billion in total economic impact to the state’s economy, according to a recent analysis by Southwick Associates based on the latest federal National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-associated Recreation. And these groups collectively shelled out about $4.7 billion in direct spending across the state.
Your Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation works diligently to conserve the state’s fish and wildlife resources, manage habitats, and promote public access to the outdoors. These activities come with costs, which are covered in large part by revenue from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses and permits.
The Wildlife Department receives no state-appropriated tax money. Its operation is based on the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, in which fish and wildlife management is funded as a user-pay, user-benefit system. That means hunters, anglers and other outdoor recreationist provide most of the funding for conservation. And much of that income is matched many times over with federal grant funding.
Every year, ODWC produces an annual report with details about agency operations. For fiscal year 2024, ODWC spent $62,007,209 across its five organizational divisions and for capital projects. Revenues for the year totaled $61,084,535, with about $21.3 million of that generated by license sales.
As dedicated hunters, anglers and sport shooters, your commitment helps protect and enhance Oklahoma’s natural resources. Buying licenses directly supports fish and wildlife conservation efforts, habitat restoration, and sustainable practices that ensure future generations can enjoy these activities.
ODWC is grateful for the support of all outdoor enthusiasts and takes very seriously its mandate to watch over the natural resources that belong to all of us. We are committed to stewarding our constituents’ money in the most effective and efficient ways possible.
The next time you buy your hunting or fishing license, remember that you’re not just taking part in a cherished tradition, you’re also playing a crucial role in the economic vitality of Oklahoma. Together, we can continue to support our communities, conserve our resources, and ensure that outdoor pastimes remain integral to Oklahoma’s identity.
