As far as getting people from other disciplines, I think it is necessary, and I don't think it's gonna happen without some serious outreach. A great place to start would be the TDHA emailing the Texas chapters of Ducks Unlimited and Delta Waterfowl and figuring out how they can partner with them and reach their members. I'm sure they have web sites and news letters than could include a small blurb. The banquets are always a big deal, and I bet setting up a table at one would get a huge number of new members. Of course the coon and squirrel dog people, but I have a feeling the same issues will come up there as with hog hunters. So I'd say the first outreach efforts should be the fowl folks.
i've made this same comment about DU banquets, or an SCI event would be outstanding. Even NWTF banquets would be a step in the right direction, albeit turkey hunting isn't dog related but a lot of those same guys upland and waterfowl hunt. I've noticed that i'm not the only TDHA member that is also a DU member, i've also noticed a few Delta Waterfowl members as well. This may seem weird but most of the people in these clubs are more willing to join an organization that fights for hunting freedoms than most of the people i've encountered in the hog dogging community.
it was mentioned that if we can't reach our own segment of dog ownership (hog doggin) how are we going to reach others?? my reply is putting forth the effort to try and branch out to other segments of hunters and getting told NO is no different than getting the same shut door within our own group. at least the effort was put forth. I'd be more than willing to volunteer any time to help reach other groups of hunters if i had at least one person to stand beside me.
