They are as predictable as new grass growing each spring. Volunteers with the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation head into the backcountry to help carry out habitat enhancement projects across elk country.
Among them is the 22nd annual Asotin work party planned for May 30-June 1 in southeast Washington. Volunteer crews plan to remove three miles of old fencing, build buck and rail fencing to protect aspen stands and clean and repair water guzzlers that supply life-sustaining water for elk and other wildlife.
In 2024, 42 RMEF volunteers replaced water troughs and repaired guzzlers damaged by the 2021 Lick Creek Fire that scorched more than 80,000 acres. They also removed more than four miles of barbed wire fencing, clearing the way for wildlife to more easily and safely move across the landscape.
“I have attended the last five years. It’s a great work project with great people,” said Justin Hyland, RMEF regional director for eastern Washington. “Our volunteers are the most amazing individuals who are extremely passionate when it comes to our mission. This project is just one example of how our volunteers continue to show us their dedication by donating the most valuable thing in the world, their time!
RMEF Films produced a short documentary about the Asotin project in 2022.
Click here to view details about the Asotin project and other 2025 scheduled RMEF work projects in Colorado, Michigan, Montana, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah and Washington.
(Photo credit: Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation)