Annual Goals

Over the past few years, MTA leadership has taken the initiative to set common-sense goals for our Association’s growth and greater positive influence in the public sphere by challenging our members to become more involved personally in achieving these milestones. Vibrations can be felt that indicate even greater things to come if everyone commits to doing their share for the good of all. Unfortunately, as is the case with most organizations, we have many members on paper but precious few “active members.” This is why I continue to challenge the membership at large to contribute their time and talents to promoting the sport of trapping and the MTA. If you understand the importance of growing our membership roster and increasing our influence in these unsettling modern times, step out of your comfort zone and make a greater impact as an active member.

For a few, this will be demonstrated in finally jumping on the leadership bus at the district level and bringing your personal experiences and perspectives forward to benefit your fellow trappers. Many will simply attend a few more meetings and volunteer to help staff some local MTA education booths in their districts. Others will jump in with both feet.

Four short years ago the membership placed me in the MTA president’s shoes and the experience has been nothing short of a blessing. I’m confident that I can speak for your vice president Bert Highland as well in this regard. Yes, there have been some serious challenges that have confronted those in leadership over the years, but I have every confidence in the BOD leadership team that we can navigate solutions for anything we may encounter. 

Why such confidence? Passion. Passion for the sport and a commitment to preserve and promote an activity that means so much to all of us.

I’ve found the more you give, the more it gives back and that’s a blessing.

At our BOD meeting in January goal setting for 2025 was open for discussion with all districts participating resulting in a single one-word goal for the year- Promote, a simple slogan with many facets. The BOD continues to challenge the membership at large to greater responsibility and personal effort. Don’t be content to leave the job to someone else, stretch yourself and become increasingly active in your organization.

Promote Your MTA

The MTA is the premier trapping organization in the State and has been so for more than sixty years through its Conservation, Education, and Outreach efforts. The MTA single-handedly finances and administers the Minnesota Trapper Education Program without a dime of taxpayer money and offers trapper certification opportunities across the entire state free of charge.

• Your directors challenge you to attend your district meetings consistently.

• Attend the convention and General Membership Meetings to stay informed. 

• Volunteer your time to fulfill assigned District duties at conventions no matter which district is hosting,

• Purchase an MTA Antique Trap calendar every year to support the MTA General Fund

• Join the Trapper Warrior 99 Club to support the MTA General Fund

• Each MTA district has been challenged to add 10 new members. Do your part to help achieve this goal. 

Promote The Sport of Trapping 

• Trapping serves a vital role in attaining sound wildlife management objectives

• Trappers are faithful stewards of the land, waters and wildlife and are true conservationists

• Promote the sport of modern ethical fur trapping at fairs, sport shows, etc.

• Informing and educating the general public on the many benefits trapping provides.

• The utilization of wild fur is a durable ecologically friendly and renewable natural resource.

• Ramp up your social media presence with positive posts that promote and highlight the trapping way of life. This outlet is foundational to reaching today’s youth in fresh new ways

•  Encourage fellow trappers to make a difference by joining the MTA

• Attend Trappers Day at the Capitol this legislative session.

• Join NTA, FTA, and other like-minded organizations

As an organization, we are feeling positive vibrations of good things to come. Challenges lie ahead but by working together with each member contributing, we will all be rewarded. 

Feel free to call, I’m always available for direction and encouragement. 

Brian Fischer

507-276-6322