The Conservation Alliance Announces Defense Fund to Protect Threatened Conservation Efforts Around the Country

(November 7, 2024) – The Conservation Alliance (TCA) is announcing a Land and Water Defense Fund which will award discretionary grants to grassroots organizations working to protect our public lands and waters, which businesses and local communities value and depend on.

Donations to the fund are pooled and distributed as grants to conservation organizations on the ground working to protect public lands and waters, local economies, and recreation opportunities. The grants are typically between six to 12 months, and can be for as much as $50,000.

Priority will be given to projects supporting TCA priority campaigns, include a parallel process for securing durable protection, address urgent threats to public lands, and amplify the voices and leadership of local communities and tribes. Specific program priorities include:

  • Defending foundational conservation laws; such as the Wilderness Act, Antiquities Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and Clean Water Act
  • Protecting landscapes, rules, regulations, and management plans previously supported by TCA
  • Opposing any proposed transfer of federal lands to state or private ownership

Since its founding in 2017, the Land and Water Defense Fund has awarded 43 grants totaling $777,000. These grants have been instrumental in supporting conservation laws, including the Antiquities Act, National Environmental Policy Act, and Endangered Species Act. Key achievements include stopping the transfer of the Elliott State Forest in Oregon, public lands in Utah, and protecting six national monuments that were at risk of reduction.

Companies and individuals, regardless of their affiliation with TCA, are invited to contribute to the Land and Water Defense Fund. Contributions from TCA members are accepted as additional donations beyond regular membership dues.

For more information or to contribute to the fund, please visit https://conservationalliance.com/land-water-defense-fund/.

About The Conservation Alliance

The Conservation Alliance is a coalition of over 270 like-minded member companies who pool resources to fund and advocate for the protection of North America’s cherished wild places and outdoor spaces. Through the collective power of their membership – companies from a range of industries – from the outdoor industry to brewers, bankers, sportsmen, and renewable energy – take bold steps to conserve wild public lands and waters. Since 1989, they’ve awarded over $33.1 million in grants and helped protect over 124 million acres and 4,964 river miles, remove or halt 41 dams, purchase 22 climbing areas & designate five marine reserves. For complete information about The Conservation Alliance, visit conservationalliance.com.

Media Contact:
Lilly Zoller, Communications Director

The Conservation Alliance

Lilly@conservationalliance.com

Knife maker Opinel joins Grassroots Outdoor Alliance as member partner

ASHEVILLE, N.C. ( Nov. 7, 2024) — Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, the national organization dedicated to the health and growth of specialty outdoor retail, welcomes Opinel to its national vendor partner network, effective Fall 2024.

Opinel, which is based in the French Alps, has been manufacturing knives since 1890. The brand will attend the upcoming Grassroots Connect Show in Kansas City, Mo., Nov. 11-14, as a member. The addition of Opinel grows the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance vendor community to 67, joining the organization’s nationwide network of 95 independent retailers with 210 retail locations in 45 states.

Brands that are vendor partners in Grassroots Outdoor Alliance gain direct and personal access to the Grassroots retailer community. Membership provides numerous opportunities to collaborate, engage and learn, including through customized data reports, facilitated learning events, access to the Grassroots staff, and a guaranteed invitation to Grassroots Connect, the group’s super-efficient, twice-yearly buying show each June and November.

“We’re very excited to welcome Opinel into Grassroots as a vendor partner and to support them as they continue to grow in the outdoor space. With their rich history, Opinel embodies a stable and reliable ethos that aligns well with specialty outdoor and Grassroots member retailers.” said Gabe Maier, president of Grassroots Outdoor Alliance.

Based in Savoie, France, with distribution in the U.S. since 2016, Opinel’s product collection encompasses classic pocket knives, kitchen tools, table knives, and gardening tools.

“Since 1890, Opinel’s global growth has been closely tied to specialty retail. We believe that independent specialty retailers are the most authentic ambassadors of our brand, helping to build a strong community around Opinel,” said Alex Delecroix, director of U.S. sales and operations. “This is why our partnership with Grassroots is such a natural fit. Through this collaboration, we aim to deepen our commitment to supporting independent specialty retailers within the outdoor industry.”

Retailer attendance at Grassroots’ Connect Show next week will be up 13 percent to 157 retail businesses, vendor attendance will increase 8 percent to 134 brands, and total buyers in attendance will rise 3.5 percent to 387, compared to numbers at last Fall’s Connect Show.

About Grassroots Outdoor Alliance

Grassroots Outdoor Alliance is a retailer-owned network of 95 independently owned outdoor retailers and 66 vendor partners, working together for the health and growth of specialty outdoor retail. Through data collection and analysis, direct member support, specialty events and deep vendor partnerships, Grassroots Outdoor Alliance is creating both a vision and roadmap for the long-term success of independent specialty retail. Grassroots Outdoor Alliance is recognized as a catalyst for the success of its retailers and vendor partners; an advocate for specialty independent retail; a promoter of education and community within the specialty channel; and a key influencer of the national outdoor industry. Grassroots Outdoor Alliance also operates Connect, a twice-annual legacy show experience that spans four days, offering an efficient and structured format for retailers to conduct pre-season line showings and business conversations.

About Opinel

From our home in the French Alps, Opinel has been making knives since 1890. Today, the Opinel line encompasses classic pocket knives, kitchen tools, table knives, and gardening tools. As you move from your garden to the table, from the great outdoors to great meals with friends, let Opinel join you for good food, good company, and the adventures that await. To view the collection, visit www.opinel-usa.com or follow @opinelusa.

 

DERMATONE LAUNCHES CAMPHOR ICE, ALL-IN-ONE SKIN RELIEF FOR DRY SKIN

SOUTHPORT, Conn. –  (November 7, 2024) – Dermatone, a trusted leader in skincare and sunscreens since 1981, introduces Camphor IceÒ Skin Balm, a versatile solution for minor skin irritations and muscle discomfort, ideal for consumers that love the outdoors. Providing soothing comfort for dry skin and irritated skin as well as relief from bug bites, minor burns and scrapes. Camphor Ice is also great for chapped and cracked lips, cracked skin on hands and feet, and soothing sore muscles. The balm’s blend of ingredients also includes Vitamin E, Coconut Oil and Aloe to hydrate and replenish the skin. Formulated with high-quality, natural ingredients suitable for all skin types, Camphor Ice Skin Balm is available in a 1.0 oz. round twist stick ($10.99) at dermatone.com and at select retailers in-store and online.

For generations, Dermatone’s Camphor Ice has provided relief for weathered skin and minor aches. With a cooling effect that also eases nasal and chest congestion, this balm is a trusted choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Ingredients include coconut oil that moisturizes and nourishes the skin; vitamin E with antioxidants supporting skin repair and protection; and aloe vera extract that calms and hydrates irritated skin. It’s easy to apply, absorbs quickly, and leaves no greasy residue.

“Our Camphor Ice Skin Balm meets the needs of outdoor enthusiasts who find themselves in a variety of conditions and who’s skin needs treatment from irritation,” said Doug Metchick, president of Dermatone. “Packaged for easy, on-the-go application, Dermatone’s Camphor Ice Balm fits easily in a backpack or pocket and is a staple for medicine cabinets and first aid kits.”

Proudly made in the United States, Camphor Ice Skin Balm soothes minor burns, cuts, scrapes, bug bites, and sunburn. It also uses anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling and can help alleviate pain and itchiness associated with skin conditions such as dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis. Dermatone is committed to quality, ensuring all products are free from harsh chemicals for a gentle yet effective experience.

For more information, visit dermatone.com.

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About Dermatone

Since 1981, Dermatone has been the trusted choice for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers seeking high-quality skincare solutions. Our specialized, science-backed formulas are designed to be effective in all types of extreme conditions including sun, wind, dry, cold and frostbite. Crafted with clean, premium ingredients, Dermatone’s innovative products protect, hydrate and restore your skin all year long. After more than 40 years, Dermatone still maintains a reputation as the go-to brand for those committed to maintaining healthy skin and who demand high performance, quality and reliability in their skincare routine. Dermatone products are proudly made in the U.S.A.

 

Media Contact:

Lindsey Clinkingbeard, CGPR

lindsey.clinkingbeard@offmadisonave.com

602-432-1667

 

 

Outdoor Industry Association Reaffirms Commitment to Business, People, and Planet Following 2024 Election

 [BOULDER CO, November 5, 2024] – As a member-led collective and a catalyst for meaningful change in the outdoor industry, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is committed to ensuring that the outdoor recreation economy—supporting 7.6 million American jobs and contributing $1.1 trillion in consumer spending—continues to thrive in partnership with the newly elected administration and Congress.  

OIA stands ready to work with the Trump Administration and Congress to advance policies that drive growth, protect public lands, and increase access to outdoor spaces for all communities. We thank the Biden Administration and outgoing Congress for their partnership over the last four years.  

Together with our members, OIA will mobilize its advocacy networks to champion policies that promote sustainable manufacturing and support a balanced trade agenda that safeguards U.S. jobs and fuels innovation. 

Through a collaborative and bipartisan approach, OIA will: 

  • Advance a Balanced Trade Agenda: OIA is committed to advancing tariff reform, supporting U.S. manufacturing, and leveling the playing field for outdoor businesses. OIA will continue to advocate for the renewal of programs including the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) to reduce costs, create jobs, and fuel innovation in outdoor products. 
  • Promote Conservation and Access and Expand Access to the Outdoors for All: OIA supports policies that invest in outdoor recreation infrastructure and public lands, along with policies that ensure access to outdoor spaces nationwide. 
  • Champion Climate and Sustainability Policies: To protect recreation spaces and promote sustainable innovation, OIA endorses climate policies that safeguard sensitive habitats, enhance public lands, and support clean infrastructure. 

Upcoming Webinar on Post-Election Landscape
OIA invites the industry to join President Kent Ebersole and its government affairs team on December 5 for a webinar discussing the 119th Congress and industry policy priorities for 2025. Participants will gain insights and strategies to effectively engage policymakers and drive impactful policies shaping the future of trade, recreation, and sustainability. Register here. 

 

About Outdoor Industry Association

Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policy makers and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org.

 

FEATHERSNAP SMART BIRD FEEDER SELECTED AS ONE OF OPRAH’S FAVORITE THINGS 2024

November 1, 2024 – FeatherSnap announced today that the Wi-Fi Smart Bird Feeder is included in 2024 Oprah’s Favorite Things holiday gifts list featured on OprahDaily.com and in Oprah Daily’s special print 2024 Holiday Edition, on newsstands nationwide on November 12.

This year, most gifts have been selected from inspiring small businesses, including women-owned, Black-owned and other minority-owned businesses from around the country. To shop the full list of items please visit: https://www.oprahdaily.com/oprah-favorite-things-2024.

As Oprah’s Favorite Things celebrates the 10th anniversary of Amazon’s partnership, FeatherSnap’s Smart Bird Feeder will be available for purchase at feathersnapcam.com, and exclusively in Amazon’s store at amazon.com/oprah, as well as the Amazon shopping app for customers to conveniently shop anytime, anywhere. More than 60% of sales on Amazon’s store come from independent sellers – most of which are small and medium sized businesses. To shop the full list of items please visit: https://www.oprahdaily.com/oprah-favorite-things-2024.

As Oprah says on OprahDaily.com, “Calling all bird lovers! Now watch in real time and get HD photos and videos of birds sent right to your phone with this smart solar panel-powered bird feeder.”

Oprah’s Favorite Things list is a must-have holiday shopping guide that features the most ingenious gadgets, fashionable sustainable goods, decadent desserts and the finest finds in home, fashion, and beauty, with 51 gifts under $50. For more than 25 years, the brand has showcased must-give gifts for the holidays, often serving as a launch pad for small businesses and highlighting the inspiring stories of the owners behind the products.

FeatherSnap aims to make birdwatching accessible to everyone, whether at home or around the globe. Our innovative Wi-Fi connected smart bird feeder lets you observe and interact with birds in real-time through your device. Capture and share photos and videos of your feathered visitors, and build your Bird Book as you identify different species. More than just a product, FeatherSnap fosters a community of nature enthusiasts, inviting both seasoned birdwatchers and newcomers to celebrate the beauty of the natural world together.

Twelve lucky readers will have the chance to win all of the items on Oprah’s Favorite Things List in the 12-Day Give-O-Way Sweepstakes (https://oprahdaily.com/favoritethings) which runs from November 12 through November 23, 2024.

Oprah Daily’s special print 2024 Holiday Edition featuring the FeatherSnap Smart Bird Feeder on the 2024 Oprah’s Favorite Things List hits newsstands nationwide on November 12.

FeatherSnap is a brand created to revolutionize birdwatching. With our Wi-Fi enabled feeder, the wonder of nature is brought right to your fingertips. Effortlessly experience the joy of birdwatching by receiving captivating photos and videos directly to your phone. To learn more, visit https://www.feathersnapcam.com.

For PR inquiries, please contact Suzanne Hermann at suzanne@darbycommunications.com.