Bringing up A New Chapter - Overview

Goal

NFC chapters operate on state boundaries. The goal is to work on state-level issues as well as local projects throughout the state. NFC state boards are deliberately small, consisting of vetted members. The ideal size of the board is between 6 and 12 people. Any less and it is tough to get things done. Anything more and it is tough to keep people engaged and interested.

“While no one has to do everything, everyone has to do something to make chapters work... ”
— Bob Mallard - NFC Executive Director

General Guidelines - Short-Term

  • All board members must provide National NFC with a short bio, option quote, and several photos for the state webpage.

    • Limit non-fish/fishing/Conservation content.

    • No nonnative fish, poor fish handling, or any other photos that could be viewed as offensive to anyone.

  • Upon formation the board should meet, virtual or in-person, so everyone can put a face to a name. It is important that board members know who’s who, who can do what, what their availability is, and what everyone’s experience and knowledge is.

  • Create a contact list with names, email, phone number, and location. The latter will help plan for events, shows, and projects.

  • Select officers. At formation, this is more about who is willing to step up. If multiple people show interest in the same position, preference should go to the person with the most flexible schedule, knowledge, and experience. This should be worked out between those willing to step up.

    • Guidelines for new officers are available on the Internal NFC webpage.

  • Select a day/time for your monthly meeting. Relay the information to the applicable National Vice Chair and National Chair.

  • All board members must read the policies and procedures under GENERAL on the NFC internal webpage (Password=ArcticCharr)

    • Other policies and procedures that will be important up the road are available as well.

“Nothing prepares a new NFC chapter for success more than reading our formal policies and procedures. Nothing perpetuates failure than not doing so...”
— Bob Mallard - Executive Director, Native Fish Coalition


  • While not required, non-officer board members can update their email tagline to reflect their involvement with NFC if they choose to.

    • Officers are requested to do so for consistency and professionalism reasons.

Administration

  • Board members should familiarize themselves with NFC standard Online Office Tools.

  • Board members should familiarize themselves with the NFC Website.

  • Board members may purchase NFC Business Cards if they choose to.

  • Create Facebook page and Instagram account.

    • Refer to existing chapter pages for format.

  • National NFC will create a state logo.

    • PNG image will be provided to board members for email, etc.

  • Provide National NFC with state-specific fish and habitat photos to seed the chapter webpage.

    • Do not crop or edit.

  • National NFC will provide the following event/show equipment and supplies:

    • NFC Brochures

      • Brochure Holder

    • Generic NFC Business Cards

      • Standard

      • QR Codes

      • Business Card Holder

    • ID badges and lanyards.

    • (2) 6’ Folding Tables

      • Red or Orange Table Cloth (Front Table)

      • White Table Cloth (Rear Table)

    • Locking Cash Box

    • Donation Jar

    • Merchandise

      • Standard Order Form

General Guidelines - Medium-Term

  • Meet with state fish and game to see where you may be able to help out.

  • Identify project opportunities with the emphasis on engaging the board and getting some easy fast wins on the board.

    • Shows and events

    • Stream clean-ups

    • E-fishing support (state and federal fish and game)

    • Tree planting

    • Informational signage

    • Refer to NFC’s CAMPAIGN page for idea.

  • Recruit Advisory Council members.

  • Increase board size if needed.

Internal NFC 3Bob MallardComment