MISSOULA, Mont. — The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation raises its voice to honor those who freely give of their time and talents during National Volunteer Week. It especially celebrates its thousands of volunteers from coast to coast who plan and execute RMEF big game banquets.
“Our volunteers make conservation happen. There is no doubt that we could not do what we do to ensure the future of elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage without our volunteers,” said RMEF President and CEO Kyle Weaver. “To each and every one of them we express a heartfelt, ‘Thank you!’”
In addition to carrying out 500 fundraising banquets annually, volunteers further give of their time by removing old fencing, installing wildlife water guzzlers, treating noxious weeds, planting seedlings and serving at youth camps, mentored hunts and other activities.
“RMEF volunteers have a drive, passion, dedication and enthusiasm that’s evident by their examples which, in reality, ripple throughout our entire membership base, translating into meaningful-on-the-ground accomplishment,” said Fred Lekse, RMEF Board of Directors chair.
Since its founding 41 years ago, volunteers helped RMEF conserve or enhance 9.1 million acres of wildlife habitat, open or improve public access to 1.6 million acres and complete more than 14,800 conservation and hunting heritage outreach projects. The value of that work tops $1.7 billion, which improves habitat for elk, mule deer, moose, mountain lions, black bears and a multitude of other wildlife, fish and bird, fish species.
“The more people that are involved, the better and the more we can do,” added Weaver.
Click here to learn more about RMEF volunteer possibilities and here to view a list of RMEF events.
About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
Now in its fifth decade of conservation accomplishment and fueled by hunters, RMEF has conserved more than 9.1 million acres for elk and other wildlife. RMEF also works to open and improve public access, fund and advocate for science-based resource management, and ensure the future of America’s hunting heritage. Discover why “Hunting Is Conservation” ® at rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.