Henning to Lead RMEF Lands and Conservation Programs

Henning to Lead Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Lands and Conservation Programs

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont.- -(Ammoland.com)- The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation has announced the promotion of 10-year employee Blake Henning to the position of vice president of lands and conservation.

Henning will oversee habitat enhancement projects, grant programs, conservation easements, land acquisitions and transfers to public agencies, stewardship contracting and other programs at the center of RMEF’s mission to ensure the future of elk, other wildlife and their habitat.

RMEF has helped to conserve or enhance habitat on over 5.8 million acres. So far in 2010, it has helped to permanently protect over 22,000, and enhance over 16,000, acres.

“It’s gratifying to see leaders emerge from within our organization, and we’re excited to welcome Blake into his new role. This position is essential to everything that RMEF is about, and Blake has the passion, experience and creativity to help us meet the challenges of conservation today,” said Rod Triepke, RMEF chief operations officer.

Henning replaces Jack Blackwell, who is retiring from the vice president of lands and conservation position but will continue working for RMEF as a part-time fundraiser.

Blackwell said, “I worked closely with Blake and observed up close his accomplishments and drive. I am very supportive and pleased with his promotion!”

Henning began his RMEF career in Wyoming as a regional director and fundraiser. Most recently, he directed RMEF lands programs and is a 2010 graduate of the prestigious National Conservation Leadership Institute. Prior to joining the RMEF staff, the Crete, Neb., native worked for the Kansas Conservation Commission. Henning holds an MS in wildlife ecology from Kansas State University and a BS in wildlife management and agriculture from the University of Nebraska.

Henning and his family live in Missoula, Mont.

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
Snowy peaks, dark timber basins and grassy meadows. RMEF is leading an elk country initiative that has conserved or enhanced habitat on over 5.8 million acres–a land area equivalent to a swath three miles wide and stretching along the entire Continental Divide from Canada to Mexico. RMEF also works to open, secure and improve public access for hunting, fishing and other recreation. Get involved at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.