The Georgia Department of Natural Resources is reaffirming its dedication to offering individuals with mobility impairments with ample hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreational opportunities.
The Outdoors Beyond Barriers adaptive program of the department aims to equip all Georgians with the necessary tools and resources to access the outdoors.
Walter Rabon, the Commissioner of Georgia DNR, emphasized the mission of Outdoors Beyond Barriers – to educate, encourage, and empower individuals in Georgia with mobility impairments to connect with nature. In light of National Disability Awareness Month in March, the Georgia DNR wants to raise awareness about their ongoing efforts to eliminate barriers that hinder outdoor access for those with mobility limitations.
DNR intends to expand the program by organizing hunting and fishing events in all six regions of the state on public lands and fishing areas. Additionally, they aim to collaborate with private landowners in Georgia to create more opportunities for participants.
The department has announced that it will maintain its provision of free Action Trackchairs for individuals with mobility impairments, as part of its collaboration with the Aimee Copeland Foundation’s All Terrain Georgia initiative.
Currently, there are over 2.2 million individuals in Georgia who have disabilities, with approximately 14% of them being related to mobility, according to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The state has made significant investments, totaling over $2.2 million, to enhance accessibility in terms of infrastructure and outdoor experiences.
