MISSOULA, Mont.—The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation kicked off National Volunteer Week by saluting its 11,000-plus volunteers who actively raise funds across more than 500 chapters nationwide.

“We are deeply indebted to our volunteers. They are a vital part of our conservation successes,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “Volunteers, along with our professional staff, donors, members and partners combine to create one of the most powerful forces in conservation today. This combination translates into on-the-ground funding that drives RMEF to better carry out its mission of ensuring the future of elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage.”

Volunteers organize and execute chapter banquets, fundraising drives and other events. They also roll up their sleeves to complete a variety of conservation projects from coast to coast including noxious weed treatments, the removal of fencing, rehabbing and constructing wildlife water sources, and serving as mentors at youth camps.

In 2015, RMEF volunteers assisted with:

• Raising funds that contributed toward RMEF topping $1 billion in total value of all-time conservation efforts
• 486 banquets and 270 other fundraising events in 500-plus chapters across 49 states
• Logging more than 7,200 hours of volunteer time for on-the-ground projects across 28 states
• Spearheading more than 80 projects that benefited habitat and wildlife in the field and educated youth and adults through hunter education programs and SAFE events

RMEF volunteers have played an important role in protecting or enhancing more than 6.7 million acres, opening or securing more than 852,000 acres for public access, and completing more than 9,816 permanent land protection, habitat stewardship, elk restoration, conservation education and hunting heritage projects.

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:

Founded over 30 years ago, fueled by hunters and a membership of nearly 220,000 strong, RMEF has conserved more than 6.7 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 www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK. Take action: join and/or donate.