RMEF turns 42 on May 14, 2026. From its founding by four elk hunters in Troy, Mont., in 1984, RMEF has gone on to complete more than 15,000 projects centered on habitat for big game, access for hunting and other outdoor recreation, and education and outreach to further our hunting heritage.
For more than four decades this outfit has been dedicated to improving the lives of elk and other big game, as well as the hunters that live to chase them. The elk, no doubt a regal beast, inspired this movement, and it is a movement that persists because of hard work, grit and real results for not only elk but also other big game and wildlife. As we embark on another year, let’s take a look at some highlights of that work.
–Lifetime Projects
Since 1984, RMEF and our partners have completed 15,184 conservation and hunting heritage projects nationwide (as of year end 2025), with a combined total value of more than $1.7 billion.
–Acres Conserved or Enhanced
Over 42 years RMEF has conserved or enhanced over 9.2 million acres, with our sights firmly on 10 million by 2030.
–Local Chapters
RMEF maintains 498 local chapters throughout the U.S., no small feat. These chapters are the lifeblood of the organization, as they build community, lead fundraising efforts and provide a pipeline for boots-on-the-ground volunteer projects.
–New Project Grants
In 2025 RMEF committed $7.4 million to 288 projects in 44 states with a proposed leverage of more than $53 million.
–Habitat Stewardship
In 2025 alone, RMEF enhanced 121,919 acres of big game habitat in 21 states.
Find out how you can support our mission by becoming a member, attending a Big Game Banquet or joining us on an RMEF work project by visiting our volunteer page.