RMEF chapter recognized for conservation work

MISSOULA, Mont.—The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation recently recognized and honored its Sandpoint-based chapter for topping one million dollars in lifetime fundraising efforts. RMEF made the announcement at its national convention in Nashville.

As of Dec. 31, 2016, the Selkirk Crest Chapter raised $1,025,627 dollars toward ensuring the future of elk and other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage.

“This is an incredible accomplishment,” said Kirk Murphy, RMEF vice president of western operations. “It’s a tribute to our dedicated volunteers and faithful members in the Idaho panhandle who believe in and support our conservation mission.”

Funding raised by individual chapters at banquets, membership drives and other events goes on the ground in that state to benefit elk, elk habitat as well as elk country around the nation.

Idaho is home to nearly 9,000 RMEF members and 16 different chapters.

Since 1985, RMEF and its partners completed 487 conservation and hunting heritage outreach projects in Idaho with a combined value of more than $63.5 million. These projects conserved or enhanced 426,900 acres of habitat and opened or secured public access to 24,147 acres.

Founded over 30 years ago, fueled by hunters and a membership of more than 220,000 strong, RMEF has conserved more than 7.1 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.

Information: rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK