In the case of the Manning family…
• Will deer hunting remain an annual tradition?
• Will their view of hunting change?
• Will Kaiden, the victim’s young son gain exposure to hunting in a fair light?
• Will Kaiden embrace deer hunting when he is older?
With hunter management being one of the four cornerstones of quality deer management, the North Central Branch of the Pennsylvania QDMA has elected to launch a localized Tree Stand Safety Outreach and Fundraising Raffle that aligns with the National Bowhunter Education Foundation’s Project Stand. Through the collaborative efforts of local businesses, conservation organizations, sportsmen groups, and individuals of varying backgrounds, this project will deliver important, life-saving, hunter safety messages while raising funds to create a college savings bond for young Kaiden. A project of this kind has potential to derive benefits that go well beyond the initial targeted goals and objectives. We hope that in the end, our efforts may in some way have a positive influence on creating desirable outcomes for the questions posed above.
We hope that the Manning’s and the many other families who are affected by tree stand related accidents and tragedies continue to accept and embrace the traditions of hunting. We hope that they view the tragedy as an unfortunate incident and not blame hunting for their loss. We hope that such families seek to find and take advantage of every opportunity to expose others, particularly youth to the traditions and legacy of hunting. And most importantly, we hope that as new hunting seasons arrive each year that they reflect upon the season in remembrance of their son, husband, and father and celebrate in the time that they shared together.
