April 1, 2009
RMEF ‘Elkologist’ Honored by U.S. Forest Service
MISSOULA, Mont.—The U.S. Forest Service is honoring one of America’s leading authorities on elk and habitat conservation—Tom Toman of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
As the Elk Foundation’s staff biologist (he laughingly calls himself an “elkologist”), Toman coordinates habitat enhancement, management and research projects. He trains biologists across the U.S. and Canada and has special expertise in trapping, handling and transporting elk for relocation and restoration efforts.
The Missoula, Mont., resident joined the RMEF staff in 1995 following 24 years with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
“Tom knows elk biology and is considered an expert by his Forest Service peers. He works tirelessly for elk country. His support and influence helps improve elk habitat nationwide,” said Tom Tidwell, regional forester for the Forest Service. “As the Elk Foundation begins its 25th Anniversary celebration in 2009, we wanted to recognize Tom’s commitment and contributions.”
Anne Zimmermann, the Forest Service national director of wildlife from Washington D.C., said, “Tom is a wonderful representative for elk and for RMEF. He has worked with so many of our field staff over the years with the end-result being better habitat for elk and better relationships with partners.”
Tidwell and Zimmermann honored Toman during a March reception at the Elk Foundation’s national convention in Fort Worth, Texas.
RMEF Vice President of Lands and Conservation Jack Blackwell said, “We couldn’t be prouder of this well-deserved special recognition for Tom. He is truly an asset to the Elk Foundation and we are very fortunate to have him.”
A Wyoming native, Toman earned a bachelor’s degree in wildlife management and conservation and a master’s in public administration from the University of Wyoming. He spent 18 years in Jackson, Wyo., overseeing regional wildlife programs for the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.