MISSOULA, Mont. — Working to ensure the future of elk, other wildlife, their habitat and America’s hunting heritage continues to drive the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation’s tireless conservation and advocacy efforts as the organization marks its 41st anniversary. Founded by four elk hunters on May 14, 1984, RMEF now includes more than 500 chapters across the United States.
“Our efforts on behalf of our members to conserve elk and the landscapes in which they live propel RMEF’s mission,” said Fred Lekse, RMEF Board of Directors chair. “In turn, they benefit other wildlife and create public access, all the while emphasizing hunters’ foremost role in conservation. We’ve worked hard for more than 40 years to build these pillars, and they will stand strong as we move forward.”
Along with conservation, access and habitat projects, other initiatives will increase RMEF’s outreach and education efforts. An enhanced Elk Country Visitor Center, currently under renovation, will open later this year. In addition, RMEF will continue its commitment to equip hunters at all levels with know-how and skills to be successful in the field through the OutdoorClass e-learning platform.
“Forty-one years ago, RMEF’s founders threw in everything they had so that future generations of hunters would have the privilege of enjoying elk and elk country. Thanks to our members, volunteers, partners and supporters, we are able to further that vision today,” said RMEF President and CEO Kyle Weaver. “In our fifth decade, RMEF will continue to lead vital conservation and access initiatives, champion science-based wildlife and habitat management, and take on a greater role in wildlife research and hunting advocacy.”
During the past year, RMEF surpassed 9.1 million acres of lifetime conservation work. In addition, RMEF served as a prominent voice for hunters and wildlife, successfully advocating before Congress, state legislatures and state agencies in support of conservation, habitat improvement and public access. Funding and outreach from RMEF played a significant role in defeating the anti-hunting, anti-wildlife-management Colorado Proposition 127. RMEF also filed with a federal court to intervene in a lawsuit brought by environmentalists seeking to place gray wolves in the northern Rocky Mountains back under Endangered Species Act provisions.