Southwest Montana is prime elk country, and Ryan Martin from Mathews Archery is excited to be back in the mountains of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest in pursuit of a September bull. “The best place on earth,” as Martin calls it, includes numerous RMEF land conservation and habitat stewardship projects, some of which directly benefit the very elk he encounters during his time there.
RMEF’s work in improving public access to the national forest, as well as enhancing forage, cover and water for elk, also combine to increase opportunities for hunters like Martin. Success during a hunt comes in many forms, and he considers it a win simply to be surrounded by a landscape where elk thrive, thanks in part to RMEF’s efforts.
But Martin knows the hunt won’t be easy. Public-land bulls are masters of survival. When a bull responds, Martin must plan his next move carefully. Will he come away with yet another reason to love this special place?
Ensuring our hunting heritage is central to RMEF’s mission. Hunters—America’s first conservationists—remain the driving force behind wildlife conservation. Through grants that support hunting heritage and conservation education, along with the RMEF OutdoorClass online learning platform, RMEF helps more people experience the outdoors, learn the skills of hunting and carry forward the traditions that define big game country.