As a Trout Unlimited Business member from its first day, Black Dog Outdoor Sports used the opportunity of its Grand Opening to support a priority effort toward which many local TU chapters have committed countless hours and substantial funds – namely the Battenkill Home Rivers Initiative (HRI). The Battenkill HRI formally began in January 2020 and represents for Trout Unlimited a full commitment to restoring and sustaining the Battenkill watershed for current and future generations. Led by TU staffer Jacob Fetterman and supported by donations and volunteers from the New York Council and Clearwater, Adirondack, Home-Waters and Southwestern Vermont chapters, the Battenkill HRI employs an ecosystem-based approach to prioritize reconnection, restoration and protection throughout the watershed.