RMEF Raises $655,000 to Benefit Wildlife Conservation
MISSOULA, Mont.—Wildlife and land conservation are the big winners thanks to a recent special gathering sponsored by Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation in Tucson, Arizona. The Hunters Rendezvous Auction raised a total of $655,000 specifically designated for the seven state agencies that provided special big game hunting tags.
“One hundred percent of the funds raised from the auction of these special big game state permits go back to the individual states,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “These permits are a public trust and returning all of the proceeds they generate at this national event to the states for the benefit of wildlife and conservation is just the right thing to do.”
State game and fish agency special tags are offered to RMEF and other wildlife conservation organizations to raise revenue as an investment in the wildlife resource and its management, habitat enhancement and America’s hunting heritage. The funding also goes directly toward on-the-ground conservation projects that benefit habitat for elk, deer and other wildlife, and assists state agencies dealing with budgetary challenges.
Arizona, Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Washington offered a combined total of seven elk tags and one big game enhancement package. Hunters attending in person and via telephone then offered bids for each specific tag.
These limited tags are very rare and deemed “special” because they often feature extended seasons that may cover an entire state with some exceptions. State agencies provide the remainder of their tags through general application, a draw system, and over-the-counter opportunities ensuring that the everyday hunter has the opportunity to hunt.
“If you look at the big picture, the revenue generated from only one tag can make a substantial difference for all our wildlife and also for improving hunting opportunity,” added Allen.
Below is a list of the state special permits auctioned off:
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• Arizona Special Elk Tag |
$140,000 |
“RMEF historically generates up to one million dollars each year for state game and fish agencies by auctioning off these special state tags and permits,” said Allen. “This is yet another example of how Hunting is Conservation.”