Bass Pro makes $1M conservation pledge in Jimmy Carter's honor

Springfield-based outdoor retailer Bass Pro Shops has made a $1 million pledge for conservation causes in honor of former President Jimmy Carter, who died Dec. 29 at age 100.

The three-year pledge is designed to support causes that were important to Carter, including the American Wetlands Trust, National Wild Turkey Federation, Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, Vamos A Pescar Education Fund, National Wildlife Federation and the Gateway to Fishing Program, according to a news release.

"It fills our hearts with joy to remember our very special fishing buddy, President Jimmy Carter," Bass Pro founder Johnny Morris said in the release. "On behalf of all fellow sportsmen and women, we thank you, President Carter, for being a steadfast supporter of hunting, fishing and the great outdoors and for your lifetime commitment to conservation."

Bass Pro in 2017 awarded Carter with its Conservation Partner of the Year honor. That same year, Carter was in Springfield for the grand opening of Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium.