RBFF wins public relations award and appoints new Board member

The Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF) was awarded the Neptune Award for public relations at the recent Miami Boat Show by the Marine Marketers of America (MMA).

At a ceremony that included more than 200 marine industry professionals, MMA Board member Alisdair Martin said: “RBFF set a new high bar in 2023. A well-planned, multi-faceted campaign, expertly executed, producing incredible results and truly welcoming women to the water. Congratulations to the team on this wonderful recognition from your industry peers!”

The recognition was for a media trip RBFF organized last summer in Montana where female journalists had the opportunity to fish, boat and learn about the conservation efforts that rely on the activities.

The RBFF has also announced the appointment of marketing and communications export Billy Pope (above) to its Board.

Pope, who has worked in marketing for 30 years, has been Communications and Marketing Director for the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources since 2019, where he oversees the department’s four divisions – state parks, marine resources, state lands and wildlife and freshwater fisheries.

“Billy’s insights will help drive innovative strategies to enhance participation in fishing and boating and their connection with outdoor recreation and conservation,” said RBFF President and CEO Dave Chanda. “His addition to the board will certainly elevate our national and local communications efforts related to conservation.”

Pope’s achievements include being named Conservation Communicator of Year at the Alabama Wildlife Federation’s Conservation Achievement awards.