September 11, 2008
Fort Worth to Host Expo for Elk Hunters, Conservationists
MISSOULA, Mont.— By economic measures, Texas is the hunting capital of America. Bragging rights will swell even more in March when the Dallas/Fort Worth area becomes world headquarters for elk hunters and conservationists from around the globe.
The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation will hold its 25th Annual Elk Camp & Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Expo, March 5-8, 2009, at the Fort Worth Convention Center.
The public is welcome to attend the Elk Foundation’s first-ever convention in Texas.
“We chose the Lone Star State for our big silver-anniversary event because Texans know hunting. They appreciate wild country and stewarding the land. And they love having a good time for a great cause,” said David Allen, president and CEO of the Montana-based Elk Foundation.
According to recent research, Texas ranks No. 1 in number of hunters (979,000), spending by hunters ($2.3 billion annually), and local jobs supported by hunters (47,000).
The convention in Fort Worth will feature the 2009 World Elk Calling Championships, elk hunting seminars, displays of record elk, kids’ activities, auctions and an exhibit hall filled with art, gear, firearms and outfitted hunting and fishing opportunities. It’s all a showcase and fundraiser for one of the nation’s premier conservation organizations. This summer, the Elk Foundation passed the 5.4 million acre mark for acres of elk habitat conserved or enhanced.
“In Texas, we’ve completed conservation and education projects valued at more than $580,000, including nearly $155,000 in grants for 2008 alone. A highlight is an RMEF-funded research project to identify elk habitat preferences, movement patterns and demographics in the Glass Mountains of west Texas,” said Allen.
The Elk Foundation has a significant membership in Texas. In fact, its Dime Box chapter near Giddings has won national conservation fundraising honors for three straight years. Curtis Christiansen of Giddings volunteers as the RMEF Texas state chair.
Admission to the 25th Annual Elk Camp & Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Expo is $12 per person or $25 per family, and free for kids 5 and under.
Show hours are Thurs., March 5, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Fri., March 6, 9 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Sat., March 7, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; and Sun., March 8, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.