justnorth posted on November 17, 2007 12:56 :: 1553 Views
MADISON – An expanded customer service call-in center that now offers Hmong-speaking representatives who can answer questions about hunting, fishing and other outdoor recreation rules and activities is one of several initiatives the state Department of Natural Resources has undertaken to increase its outreach efforts to Wisconsin’s Hmong community.
That was among the messages that Deputy DNR Secretary Pat Henderson delivered at an annual statewide conference of Hmong associations last weekend in Wausau. The two-day Wisconsin United Coalition of Mutual Assistance Associations event drew approximately 400 people. There are 15 Hmong Mutual Assistance Associations in Wisconsin.
“Our goal is to foster an inclusive conservation community that provides all of our residents and visitors from all walks of life an opportunity to enjoy Wisconsin’s great outdoors,” Henderson said.
In addition to the expanded call center, which also offers Spanish-speaking representatives, the agency has stepped up training and certifying Hmong hunters through its Hunters Education Program and facilitated new partnerships between Hmong leaders and conservation and hunting groups such as the Wisconsin Conservation Congress, Wisconsin Wildlife Federation, and the Wisconsin Outdoor Youth Expo.
DNR staff have also made appearances on a local Green Bay Hmong radio talk show to explain hunting regulations and have put up exhibits and informational tables at Hmong New Year events and gatherings.
Henderson also congratulated the leaders on Gov. Jim Doyle’s recent announcement of a new Hmong cultural center to be built in Madison.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Pat Henderson - (608) 261-7580 or Eileen Hocker, DNR diversity coordinator – (608) 266-2711
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