Retired Ironworkers Local 361 member John Sferazo, a longtime Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) member, was honored for his contributions to conservation at the Field & Stream Heroes of Conservation gala on Oct. 4 in Washington, D.C.

After suffering physical and emotional trauma as a Ground Zero volunteer on Sept. 11, 2001, Sferazo has worked to provide free hunting opportunities for first responders and veterans with disabilities. With the support of 30 organizations, his nonprofit group American Greenlands Restoration Inc. has turned a former 1,000-acre asphalt plant site in Maine back into a thriving forest habitat. “Being outside gave me an outlet, and I wanted to give others the same,” he said. “It’s the right fight, at the right time, for the right reason.”

Sferazo was nominated by USA. Currently in its seventh year, the program honors individuals involved in grassroots projects to preserve the land, water and wildlife vital to sportsmen’s pursuits.

“We were honored to nominate John as a Field & Stream Conservation Hero,” said USA Executive Director Fred Myers. 

Sferazo was joined at the gala by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, Electrical Workers (IBEW) Director of Construction and Maintenance Jerry Westerholm, Union Insurance Group President Chris DeCaigny, Myers and several other guests.

The Union Sportsmen’s Alliance brings together union members, like Sferazo, from around the country, who are willing to volunteer their time and expertise to tackle conservation projects that improve and enhance public access, wildlife habitat and outdoor experiences for communities across America.

Learn more: www.unionsportsmen.org.