RMEF, Partners Allot $1 Million for Washington Elk, Elk Habitat
In an ongoing effort to maintain and enhance wildlife habitat, including the restoration of landscapes charred by wildfire, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and its partners allocated $1,064,039 of grant funding across Washington.
“The Lick Creek and Silcott Wildfires burned more than 50,000 acres in Asotin County alone in 2021, detrimentally impacting critical habitat for elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep and other wildlife,” said Blake Henning, RMEF chief conservation officer. “This funding will address invasive weed growth, replant native vegetation and replace fencing and water developments across 2,500 acres. This effort supports our previously announced $1 million wildfire restoration commitment.”
RMEF provided $315,875 in funding that leveraged $748,164 from its partners.
The grants support a total of 14 habitat enhancement and hunting heritage projects across 13 counties and four statewide projects. They include invasive weed treatment in the Blue Mountains, improving elk habitat in the South Fork Skokomish River watershed, replacing dilapidated fencing with wildlife-friendly fencing on the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, and several mentored hunting opportunities.
Go here to see a more detailed project list.
“We thank our members and especially recognize our volunteers who plan and host banquets and other events to raise this crucial funding,” said Kyle Weaver, RMEF president, and CEO.
Founded over 30 years ago, fueled by hunters and a membership of nearly 235,000 strong, RMEF has conserved more than 7.4 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.