Did you see the Sunday commentary in the Richmond Times-Dispatch from Jim McVey, chairman of the board of directors of The Wildlife Foundation of Virginia? He had a lot to say about protecting the outdoors and open spaces in Virginia.

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It’s important to remember that outdoor recreation is itself a significant part our economy. According to a study released in September 2011, the number of American jobs that result from outdoor recreation, conservation and historic preservation is 8.4 million. These jobs, which are tied to specific places, cannot be outsourced to other countries. Here in Virginia, 1 million sportsmen and 2.3 million wildlife watchers combine to spend $2.4 billion on wildlife-associated recreation.