State Senator Patty Ritchie is asking people to participate in her 2012 Sportsman’s Survey.

“Hunting and fishing are more than just great pastimes, they are an important part of our state and regional economies, pumping $1.5 billion into small businesses and supporting thousands of local jobs,” said Ritchie.

“I want to hear from sportsmen their ideas on ways to improve and grow outdoor recreation in our state and provide a bigger boost to our region’s economy.”

Last year, sportsmen and women participated in a similar survey from Ritchie, weighing in on everything from extending the crossbow law to their preferred hunting methods and locations.

This year, Ritchie invited sportsmen through her Facebook page to submit questions of their own, and many have been included in the online survey.

To participate in the survey, sportsmen can visit www.ritchie.nysenate.gov and find the Sportsmen's Survey link at the left side of the page.

“Your ideas can help make hunting, fishing, trapping and all of outdoor activities an even better experience, and I will be sure to share them with my colleagues in the Legislature and state government,” Ritchie said.