SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- A long-time supporter of the sporting heritage, Cabela's has again signed on to sponsor National Hunting and Fishing Day, set for Sept. 27.

Cabela's sponsorship supports Wonders of Wildlife museum, the official home and national organizer of National Hunting and Fishing Day. Wonders of Wildlife produces event-planning guides, posters, banners, PSAs, newspaper ads and other communications to help build public appreciation of hunters and anglers.

At the urging of the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), Congress formalized the annual celebration in 1971 as a way to recognize hunters, anglers and conservation. Every U.S. President from Richard M. Nixon through George W. Bush, as well as Congressmen, governors and mayors across the country, have proclaimed their support. It's one of the most effective grassroots campaigns ever undertaken to promote traditional outdoor sports.

The National Hunting and Fishing Day message is no less important today. Through license fees and excise taxes, over 34 million hunters and anglers generate $100,000 every 30 minutes for fish, wildlife and habitat programs.

"National Hunting and Fishing Day is a great way to connect with hunters and anglers, as well as people who may not understand that conservation exists today only because of the efforts of sportsmen and women," said Dennis Highby, president and chief executive officer of Cabela's. "We're proud to renew our commitment to this important cause."

Cabela's joins a growing list of sponsors committed to National Hunting and Fishing Day: NSSF, Bass Pro Shops, The Sportsman Channel, National Wild Turkey Federation and Realtree.

Denise Wagner, event coordinator for Wonders of Wildlife, said, "We're grateful to have Cabela's on board again this year. The more we can remind people of the ties between hunting, fishing and conservation, the more public support we'll enjoy in the future."

Located in Springfield, Mo., Wonders of Wildlife is the only hunting- and fishing-focused museum that's both affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution and accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association.

For more information, visit www.nhfday.org.