The holidays are a time to reflect and celebrate all the blessings in our lives. For those of us who find peace and joy in Missouri's natural resources, 2020 was indeed an opportunity to deepen that connection, especially given the circumstances this year.
As we reflect on those challenges and adversity, I realize just how vital the work is that we do together at the Conservation Federation of Missouri. Without you, our members, our affiliate organizations, our business partners and all of our supporters, CFM wouldn't exist. You make the work we do possible and our accomplishments a reality. Thank you.
CFM binds together all who enjoy the outdoors. We are hunters and hikers exploring the same forest, fishers and paddlers loving the same stream, gardeners and trappers digging in the same dirt, bird watchers and bikers on the same trail. As a federation, we are individual voices operating as a collective whole. We are the conservation community, and we remain ready to defend and promote the wise use of our precious natural resources.
Many of you give so selflessly of your time, talent and resources. You are the best among us. You are inspiring to me, our staff and our board. Together we have learned that we can rely on each other, and there are no goals that we cannot accomplish when we set our minds to it. Thank you for your generosity and support.
2021 will no doubt have its own set of challenges. The pandemic is not over yet, but we can hope we are closer each day to see each other face to face. For those of you that have suffered, lost loved ones, or faced adversity, you are in my prayers for strength and compassion as you deal with these struggles and obstacles.
Missouri is magnificent. Our natural resources and outdoor opportunities exceed what other states can only dream of. We must be thankful for everyone who works tirelessly day-in and day-out to provide us, the citizens, with incredible opportunities to do what we love in the great outdoors of Missouri.
May God bless you and your families. Have a very, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Tyler Schwartze
Executive Director
