Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont. --(Ammoland.com)- Outdoor Channel has announced it will provide daily online coverage of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation annual convention and expo, called Elk Camp, Feb. 2-4, in Las Vegas.

Outdoor Channel, America’s leader in outdoor TV, boasts a huge website audience with 12 million unique visitors and 50 million unique page-views per year.

Elk Camp coverage will include daily news, updates, photo galleries and more.

Coverage will be posted at www.outdoorchannel.com.

RMEF members, elk hunters, conservationists and others unable to attend Elk Camp can also keep up with the event at the RMEF website (www.rmef.org), HuntingLife.com (www.huntinglife.com) and perhaps other sites and forums.

Elk Camp is RMEF?s largest annual member rally and conservation fundraiser. Thousands of elk enthusiasts from around the country will be in Las Vegas for the event.

Set for the Las Vegas Convention Center and Riviera Hotel, Elk Camp features an expo hall co-hosted by International Sportsmen?s Expositions. Attractions include the 2012 RMEF/Leupold World Elk Calling Championships, plus hundreds of exhibits, seminars and game-calling clinics, auctions, raffles and entertainment.

In 2011, RMEF set a new record for membership with 184,135 and passed the 6 million-acre mark for habitat conserved or enhanced for elk and other wildlife.

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
RMEF is leading a conservation initiative that has protected or enhanced habitat on over 6 million acres?an area larger than Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Glacier, Yosemite, Rocky Mountain and Great Smoky Mountains national parks combined. RMEF also is a strong voice for hunters in access, wildlife management and conservation policy issues. RMEF members, partners and volunteers, working together as Team Elk, are making a difference all across elk country. Join us at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont. --(Ammoland.com)- Pack mules carrying hunters up the Las Vegas strip. Wall tents, campfires and meat poles in the palms beneath the Stratosphere. Elk wallowing in the fountains of Bellagio.

OK, maybe not.

But for three days in February, Las Vegas will indeed earn a new nickname as the Elk Hunting Capital of the World, as the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation brings its annual Elk Camp convention and expo to the Las Vegas Convention Center and Riviera Hotel.

The Feb. 2-4, 2012, event is new to Vegas. Several components of the convention and expo are being refashioned from years past. RMEF officials expect a fresh energy unlike any in Elk Camp history.

“We’re really looking forward to Las Vegas,” explained RMEF President and CEO David Allen, “because it’s a new market for us with plenty of local sportsmen and out-of-town visitors to enjoy our show. But Vegas is also a fun, world-class destination to help draw RMEF members, elk hunters and conservationists from across the U.S.”

He added, “Vegas is now home to the most important three days of the year for elk and elk country. The support we generate there will be crucial for our conservation initiatives in 2012.”

For 27 years, RMEF has relied on Elk Camp to build on previous momentum and set the tone for the year ahead. In 2011, following a spirited annual convention and expo in Reno, Nev., the organization passed the 6 million acre mark for habitat conserved and enhanced nationwide, supported elk restoration efforts in Maryland and Missouri, helped mitigate the effects of historic wildfires in Arizona, introduced thousands of youths to hunting and conservation, assisted with legal efforts to delist and manage wolves in the Rockies, and much more.

For 2012 Elk Camp attendees with full registration, event highlights will include:

• Exciting fundraising auctions, raffles and games. Win the hunt you’ve always dreamed about, as well as custom firearms, jewelry, sporting collectibles and much more.
• Gala banquets and outstanding entertainment. Headliners include hit country music artists Clint Black and Craig Morgan. Back by popular demand is a surprise entertainer for Volunteer Fun Night, sponsored by Hunters Specialties. Previous surprise acts have included Neal McCoy, Sawyer Brown and Easton Corbin.
• Don’t-miss events such as the Friends of the Foundation breakfast sponsored by Browning, featuring a fun Rat Pack tribute act; ladies luncheon with a “Hillbilly Bash” theme; prayer breakfast sponsored by FCA Outdoors, and much more.
• The biggest Elk Camp exhibit hall and expo in years. Attractions, displays and activities for the whole family, plus 450 booths filled with outfitted hunting and fishing opportunities, art, gear, firearms and everything elk. Also included are Cabela’s-sponsored seminars led by authorities on hunting, horse packing, marksmanship, wild game cooking, game calling strategies and more. America’s premier hunting, fishing and travel shows, International Sportsmen’s Expositions, is managing the exhibit hall and expo. For booth information, contact service@SportsExpos.com or 800-545-6100.
• As always, Elk Camp 2012 will feature the RMEF/Leupold World Elk Calling Championships. Preliminary rounds are Feb. 3; championship rounds are Feb. 4.

Full registration through Dec. 10 is $325 for per person. Partial registration is available. For more attendee registration info, visit www.rmef.org.

For public day-traffic to the expo, daily admission is $12 per person or $25 per family, and free for kids 5 and under. Show hours: Thurs., Feb. 2, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Fri., Feb. 3, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Sat., Feb. 4, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Elk Camp sponsors include Midway USA, Gerber, Browning, Cabela’s, North American Hunter, Hunter’s Specialties, Leupold, Budweiser and Danner.

For more details, agendas and more information, visit www.rmef.org.

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
RMEF is leading a conservation initiative that has protected or enhanced habitat on over 6 million acres–an area larger than Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Glacier, Yosemite, Rocky Mountain and Great Smoky Mountains national parks combined. RMEF also is a strong voice for hunters in access, wildlife management and conservation policy issues. RMEF members, partners and volunteers, working together as Team Elk, are making a difference all across elk country. Join us at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont. --(Ammoland.com)- A trophy bull can turn up almost anywhere in elk country but opportunities to take one are rare.

When a monster steps out, a hunter often has no time to count antler points, much less compute scores. But not always. Sometimes there’s ample chance to really focus and size up an elk in your search for the bull of a lifetime.

Will you know a world-class trophy if you see one?

“All elk hunters are fascinated by antlers, but not everyone recognizes what it takes to grow trophies. Big headgear is a product of genetics, age and nutrition provided by great habitat,” said David Allen, president and CEO of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. “Learning to field judge antlers will help you understand even more about the elk you’re looking at, whether it’s one for the record books–or one to let walk away and grow up.”

RMEF offers the following general guidelines adapted from material provided by Boone and Crockett Club. For details, read “A Boone and Crockett Club Field Guide to Measuring and Judging Big Game.” Visit www.boone-crockett.org.

Counting Points–Most mature bull elk are 6x6s. An elk’s first antlers are usually spikes. In good habitat, a bull may have a 5-point rack as a 2-1/2-year-old and then a small six-point rack as a 3-1/2-year-old. Its best antlers, however, usually come at age 9-1/2 to 12-1/2, so remember that not every 6×6 is a trophy. Instantly identifying a six-point bull is not difficult. The fourth point, sometimes called the dagger point, is normally the longest point and most distinctive feature of an elk rack. If the main beam goes straight back from the dagger you’re almost certainly looking at a five-point antler. If there’s another point rising upward behind the dagger, perhaps making a horizontal “Y,” then you’re looking at a six-point antler.

A perfect, typical trophy rack has a combination of long points, long beams, good mass and a wide spread. However, some of these criteria are more important than others. Let’s look at each.

Beam Length–Most great elk have long main beams. In the all-time records book, the average beam length of the top 10 typical heads is over 58 inches. However, the average beam length of the bottom 10 is 55-4/8 inches–not much difference. If a bull appears able to “scratch his rear-end with his antlers,” it likely has the frame to be a trophy. No need to spend much more time considering beam length.

Inside Spread–Boone and Crockett records show a wide variation on spreads of trophy elk. Interestingly, the narrowest head in the book outscores the widest, which should be enough to tell you that spread isn’t everything. The top 10 typical entries range from 38-2/8 to 53 inches of inside spread for an average of 46-2/8 inches. The bottom 10 range from 38 to 49-4/8 inches for an average of 42-4/8 inches. Again, not a significant difference. In the field, simply look for a spread that stretches well outside the ears. This should indicate a spread somewhere in the low to mid-40s, and that’s really all you need be concerned about.

Mass–Most really big elk have heavy antlers that carry good mass through the length of the main beam. However, mass is very hard to judge. It’s unusual to have a lot of time to look at a big bull and mass is not where you should spend most of it. Just remember that very few elk considered “big” in the more visible characteristics have thin antlers. When hunting, quickly look for antlers that are visibly as large or larger in circumference than the ear bases, which are about 9 inches around. More importantly, the antlers should maintain that thickness to at least the fifth point.

Tine Length–If you have time to study a bull, really look at the tines. Length of the points is the single most important trophy criteria. The good news is that point length is one of the easiest things to judge because there is a yardstick. On a big American elk, the distance from the burr of the antler to the tip of the nose is about 15-4/8 inches. Let’s start at the bottom of the antlers and work up. A curved brow tine that appears to reach the end of the nose will be about 18 inches long. The next two points are usually shorter, but they still need to approach the burr-to-nose yardstick. Now comes the truth-teller, the dagger point. The dagger point is usually the longest point, and on a monster bull it will be half-again longer than the burr-to-nose yardstick, or even almost double that measurement. On a 6×6, the last point matters a lot. It has to be strong, at least 8 or 10 inches. This is less important if the bull is a 7×7, but you still need some inches in the top of the rack.

For a typical American elk, Boone and Crockett requires a minimum of 360 points to enter the Awards Book, and 375 points for entry into the All-time Records Book. For most bulls, inside spread is only 10-15 percent of its score. Mass is usually less than 20 percent. Beam length is worth close to 25 percent. This math means tine length accounts for about 40 percent of the score, sometimes more but rarely less.

So let’s look through the spotting scope at a really good 6×6 American elk. Get your notebook out. The bull seems to have really long beams, almost scratching his rump. Estimate 55 inches on each side: 110 points. Spread is fairly wide but not noticeably splayed out. Figure 45 inches of inside spread: 45 points. Mass isn’t huge, but pretty good. It starts at a normally heavy 9 inches and keeps it pretty well, maybe 30 inches of circumference on each antler: 60 points. So far, the bull is totaling 215.

Now let’s work out the points. The brow tines curve nicely and seem to pass the tip of the nose, about 18 inches each: 36 points. The next two points are about 16 inches each on both sides: 64 points. The daggers are quite good, about half again longer than the burr-to-nose yardstick. Let’s give them 22 inches each: 44 points. The back fork is also pretty good, about 8 inches on each side: 16 points.

Assuming both sides are equal, with no deductions for lack of symmetry, and you’re looking at a bull that will score 375–a Boone and Crockett-class typical bull!

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 5.9 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

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont. --(Ammoland.com)- The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation’s annual convention, known throughout its 27 years as “Elk Camp,” is set for Feb. 2-4, 2012, at the Las Vegas Convention Center and host hotel, the Riviera.

It’s the first time Las Vegas has hosted the event.

America’s premier hunting, fishing and travel shows, International Sportsmen’s Expositions (ISE), is co-locating with Elk Camp, managing all exhibit-hall sales and expo advertising to the public. RMEF will manage auctions, fundraisers, banquets, ceremonies and all RMEF-member activities.

Steve Decker, vice president of marketing for RMEF, said, “For 35 years, no company has produced better consumer sportsman shows than ISE. Their annual shows in Denver, Phoenix, Sacramento and Salt Lake City draw hundreds of thousands of people. This new partnership and convention city is a huge growth opportunity for Elk Camp. The expertise of ISE will help us build visibility and engage a new and larger audience in our mission–and we couldn’t be more excited about the potential.”

ISE President and CEO Brian Layng said, “We look forward to co-locating with RMEF and providing its members, exhibitors, corporate sponsors and the public with the best wildlife and outdoor exposition in North America.”

RMEF and ISE began a partnership in 2010, introducing the Ultimate Elk Hunter’s Raffle and several joint marketing efforts to promote RMEF at existing ISE shows. These efforts in 2011 produced single-year growth rates of 15 percent in raffle proceeds and 69 percent in new RMEF memberships. With this early success, plus a multi-year agreement with ISE beginning at Elk Camp 2012, Decker sees unlimited potential for the partnership to generate major support for RMEF conservation initiatives into the future.

For more info on Elk Camp 2012, visit www.rmef.org or call 800-CALL ELK.

For exposition exhibit sales, visit www.SportsExpos.com or call 800-545-6100.

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 5.9 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.

About International Sportsmen’s Expositions
For 37 years ISE has produced America’s premier hunting, fishing and travel shows. Featuring as many as 600 exhibiting companies including leading manufacturers and retailers, guides and outfitters, resorts and lodges, and nonprofit outdoor organizations, each ISE also offers hundreds of seminars, contests, hands-on special features, plus a huge Youth Sports Fair that’s dedicated to creating the next generation of responsible outdoor enthusiasts.

Solaire Grills

Solaire

Whittier, CA, --(Ammoland.com)- Solaire’s high-technology portable infrared Solaire Anywhere barbecue grill cuts grilling times in half and delivers better-tasting food.

Why infrared is better: “Ready to cook in under three minutes in any weather. It cooks fast! Incredible searing power locks in flavorful juices with little chance of flare ups. Once the food is seared you can cook it to any level of doneness you desire because the juices are sealed in-power-cooking at its best!”–Ray Vavla, National Sales Manager

The Grill: Compact at 21″W x 12″H x 13″L and 20-pounds, putting out an incredible 14,000 BTUs at a range of 225 to 1,200 degrees. It comes with a carry-bag that fits three one-pound disposable propane canisters (fuel for 60 minutes each). With optional adapter hose it can be hooked up to 20-pound tanks.

Setup time: About one minute.

Speed:Warm up in less than 3 minutes. It will grill eight-quarter pound burgers (with room for a couple of hot dog wieners in about 6-7 minutes; one-inch thick steaks about 3 minutes longer.

Flavor matters! The powerful infrared burner delivers high-dollar steak-house crisp exterior while the food is finished to any degree of desired doneness. Unique V-shaped stainless steel grates catch drippings and convert them to flavor-packed smoke next to the food while virtually eliminating flare ups.

What is infrared? It is the energy you feel on a sunny-cold winter day that traveled from the sun through the cold vacuum of space to warm you up. This portable grill uniquely applies infrared energy directly to the food without conventional gas grill fillers such as lava rock, steel vaporizing sheets, ceramic tiles, etc.

Quality counts: Produced by a 100-year-old family-owned firm, this American handmade grill is constructed of heavy-duty 304 stainless steel (316 marine grade stainless option available for salt water boating use).

Price: $379.00 MSRP

For a dealer please go to www.solairegrills.com or call Ray Vavla 800-782-1365.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont. --(Ammoland.com)- Eviscerating an elk can be an unpleasant part of a hunt; the prelude to hard, heavy work packing out quarters.

But the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is offering insights to a lesser-known, long-proven alternative. Gutless field dressing can save you time, weight and handling of entrails with no significant loss of meat.

This method also allows hunters to skip the traditional step of splitting and handling the spine, which can contain fluids associated with chronic wasting disease.

Here is how:

1. With the elk lying on its side, begin working on the side facing up. Cut off the lower front leg at the knee joint and the lower hind leg at the hock
2. Separate the front leg from the ribcage and the hind leg from the pelvis at the ball joint. Many hunters do not skin the legs. Leaving the hide on helps keep meat clean.
3. Skin the side of the animal and remove the backstrap.
4. Strip as much meat from the flank, brisket, ribcage, spine and neck as you can, keeping the strips as large as possible. Remember, large pieces are easier to handle and keep clean than small ones.
5. Turn the carcass over and repeat the above steps.
6. Make an incision between the ribcage and pelvis to reach the tenderloins lying along the underside of the spine, and any internal organs you wish to keep.

To reduce weight, bone out the legs by flaying them open lengthwise on the inner side and removing the bones. When cool, sack or wrap the meat in clean heavyweight cotton.

For an excellent video on gutless field dressing, contact longtime Wyoming outfitter and RMEF supporter Ron Dube at 307-527-7815 www.cgwildernessadventures.com

(The following is not Ron’s video in fact it is nothing like his video, it is just funny…video included by
AmmoLand.com not RMEF)

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.

Power-it 2-in-1 Automotive 500 Watt Power Inverter

Black & Decker

Boca Raton, Fla. --(Ammoland.com)- Enjoy the convenience of electric power from a car, SUV, truck or minivan with the new portable Power Inverters from Black & Decker.

Take along a Black & Decker Power Inverter for continuous electrical power to charge and power cell phones, laptops and portable electronics as well as power electrical devices at the beach, campsite or tailgate party.

Designed for life on the go, Black & Decker Power Inverters end the frustration of not having electric power when away from a power outlet, such as on a long drive or anywhere away from home. The Black & Decker Power Inverters convert a vehicle’s DC electric current into AC electric current and provide it through household outlets or USB ports.

iMobile Power Inverter
Stay connected to friends, family and co-workers with power on the go for electronics with Black & Decker’s compact and versatile iMobile Power Inverter.

Simply plug the 100 watt Power Inverter into a vehicle’s 12 volt DC port (cigarette lighter) and enjoy the convenience of a household outlet and USB port to recharge and power cell phones, PDAs, MP3 devices, laptops and other electronics.

Black & Decker’s iMobile Power Inverter incorporates Silent-Running Technology. Other power inverters have noisy fans to prevent overheating.

The iMobile Power Inverter is easy to use. A pivoting plug folds for easy access and storage. A power/fault LED indicator shows normal operation, low input voltage and fault condition. A low-battery protection LED indicator warns against vehicle battery drain.

MSRP: $29.99. Sold at major retailers.

Power-it 2-in-1 Automotive 500 Watt Power Inverter

Power-it 2-in-1 Automotive 500 Watt Power Inverter
Black & Decker’s Power-it 2-in-1 Automotive 500 Watt Power Inverter offers 100 watts of power from inside a vehicle and 500 watts of power when connected to a car battery from under the hood.

Simply plug the Power Inverter into a vehicle’s 12 volt DC port (cigarette lighter) and enjoy the convenience of 100 watts of power from two household outlets and a USB port to power or charge cell phones, PDAs, MP3 devices, laptops and other electronics.

From under the hood, connect the Power Inverter’s battery cables to the vehicle battery to draw up to 500 watts of power to power more heavy-duty items such as a 20” TV (300 watts), power drill (320 watts), power sander (380 watts), 12” fan (200 watts) and more. It is Ideal for power away from home to enjoy the great outdoors or work in remote locations.

Two AC outlets and a USB port power multiple products. Low battery protection warns against vehicle battery drain. Illuminated icons show ideal applications for 100 watt or 500 watt electrical devices.

MSRP: $64.99. Sold at major retailers.

Power-it 800 Watt Power Inverter
Black & Decker’s 800 Watt Power-it Power Inverter offers up to 800 watts of power when connected to a vehicle battery from under the hood.

Simply connect the Power Inverter’s battery cables to the vehicle battery to draw up to 800 watts of power to power more heavy-duty items such as a mini refrigerator (700 watts), corded reciprocating saw (720 watts), coffee maker (600 watts) or other devices that require 800 watts or less.

Ideal for when you need power away from home to enjoy the great outdoors or to get work done in remote locations. Two AC outlets power multiple products. Low battery protection warns against vehicle battery drain. A fault indicator shows input (battery) or output (tools or appliance) faults.

MSRP: $99.99. Sold at major retailers.

Don't Miss This Rare Shot at a 2010 Kentucky Elk Tag

National Wild Turkey Federation

Kentucky --(Ammoland.com)- This hard-to-get 2010 tag is good for a fully guided hunt in the Corrigan Wildlife Management Area in Kentucky, and includes lodging for up to seven days and dinners.

Corrigan Wildlife Management Area is approximately 55,000 acres and located in the eastern Kentucky counties of Leslie, Knox, and Bell. This hunt will provide excellent opportunities for a trophy bull. Hunters may use a rifle, bow or crossbow in the appropriate season.

The hunt will be hosted and guided by Sam Mars, III, vice president of the NWTF National Board of Directors. In addition to being an avid turkey hunter, Sam is a lifelong resident of the area and an experienced elk hunter and guide. Lodging will be provided at the Holiday Inn Express in Middlesboro, Ky. You will have the opportunity to be filmed for possible inclusion in television shows featuring NWTF national spokeswoman Brenda Valentine.

This excellent hunt is made possible through the efforts and cooperation of the NWTF, Sam Mars, III, and the landowner represented by Molpus Timberlands Management, LLC. It does not include airfare, car rental, meat processing, airport transportation, breakfast, lunch, or state hunting license ($500). Contact donor to schedule hunt.

Donated by: Molpus Timberlands Management, LLC

Contact your local NWTF regional director to find out how you can go on this hunt! Go to www.nwtf.org/elkhunt.html to find a regional director in your state.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont.- -(AmmoLand.com)- Jim Zumbo, host of Jim Zumbo Outdoors on Outdoor Channel and longtime member and supporter of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, has established a special elk hunt for veterans at RMEF’s Torstenson Wildlife Center/Double H Ranch in New Mexico.

The first-annual “Jim Zumbo’s Purple Heart Hunt” will be a cow elk hunt in November.

Participants will include the two high bidders in auctions held March 4-7 at the RMEF Elk Camp and convention in Reno, Nev., as well as two servicemen who are recipients of the Purple Heart medal for wounds suffered in combat. Each high bidder will hunt with the veteran they sponsor.

“The rewards that I receive from taking disabled military warriors hunting are immeasurable,” said Zumbo. “This elk hunt is an opportunity to not only offer quality hunting experiences to veterans, but also for able-bodied sportsmen to experience hunting side-by-side with troops who are true American heroes.”

RMEF President and CEO David Allen said, “RMEF is proud to be a part of Jim’s Purple Heart hunt. We will roll out the red carpet for these true American heroes. As Americans, we cannot do enough to repay those who serve our country with honor and allow us to enjoy our freedoms. The Purple Heart hunt is just another small way we can say thanks to these men and women.”

Zumbo is well known for his work with disabled servicemen, many of them amputees. He and country music singer Aaron Tippin are national spokesmen for the Outdoor Recreation Heritage Fund, which is part of Paralyzed Veterans of America. Zumbo has hosted military heroes on hunts in Africa, Alaska and a dozen other states.

Like most of his hunts with disabled vets, Zumbo plans to film the upcoming elk hunt, which may be aired on his television show.

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 5.7 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.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

RENO, Nev. - -(AmmoLand.com)- Elk Camp 2010, which concluded March 7 in Reno, Nev., set the tone, direction and fundraising base to position the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation for a big year in habitat conservation, officials say.

On the strength of $1.45 million in auction proceeds and an Elk Camp record for new memberships (preliminary figures show 2,867 members joined or renewed during the event), RMEF wrapped up its 26th Annual Elk Camp & Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Expo with gross fundraising topping $2.75 million.

Those dollars will help support the organization’s initiatives to ensure the future of elk, other wildlife and their habitat.

RMEF recently topped 5.7 million acres conserved or enhanced, but RMEF President and CEO David Allen says the conservation to-do list in elk country is growing longer, not shorter.

“There was such great spirit at Elk Camp, you couldn’t help but get pumped up about where we’ve been and where we’re going. Habitat loss continues to chip away at the wild places relished by elk and elk hunters, but our volunteers, supporters and staff are headed home from Reno with a renewed sense of urgency and purpose and commitment to make a difference,” said Allen.

He added, “In many ways, Elk Camp is the official kickoff to our year, and after these past four days, I’m anticipating a great 2010.”

Other Elk Camp highlights included:

• RMEF launch of the Dale Earnhardt Land/Wildlife Legacy.
• First-ever live coverage of the RMEF/Leupold World Elk Calling Championships on ESPN Outdoors.com.
• New world champion elk callers including Joel Turner of Eatonville, Wash., who won his second title in the Professional Division.
• RMEF’s highest honor, the Wallace Fennell Pate Wildlife Conservation Award, went to Walker S. “Buddy” Smith, Jr. and wife Tammy Lynne Smith of Great Falls, Mont.
• Numerous awards and recognitions for RMEF volunteers and supporters.
• Good day-traffic in the expo hall with numerous attendees booking hunting trips.
• Entertainment by comedian Jim Gaffigan and country stars Neal McCoy and Sara Evans.

News releases on these and other headlines are posted at www.rmef.org.

Event sponsors included Roper, Leupold, Cabela’s, Gerber, Hunter’s Specialties, Midway USA, Mossy Oak, North American Hunter Magazine, Browning and Budweiser.

Allen said, “We can’t say thank you enough to our sponsors, exhibitors and attendees for their continuing support. Together, we’re helping to shape the future of elk country.”

The 27th Annual Elk Camp and Expo will be in Reno, Nev., March 3-6, 2011.

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 5.7 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.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont.- -(AmmoLand.com)- For 35 years, no company has produced better consumer sportsman shows than International Sportsmen’s Expositions (ISE). Annual events in Denver, Phoenix, Sacramento, Salt Lake City and San Mateo, Calif., draw hundreds of thousands of hunters, anglers and conservationists.

Today the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation announced an expanded partnership with ISE.

For 2010, RMEF and ISE introduced the Ultimate Elk Hunter’s Raffle. Joint marketing efforts to promote RMEF and ISE included the RMEF Great Elk Tour, and RMEF sponsorship of ISE’s Adventure Theater, and Best of the West Elk Calling Contests.

In 2012, ISE will manage the sales, marketing and promotion of the exposition component of RMEF’s annual national convention, called Elk Camp.

RMEF will continue to manage its own auctions, fundraisers, banquets and ceremonies in conjunction with the ISE-managed expo portion of Elk Camp.

“We expect this new partnership to boost our visibility across the West and ignite significant growth in our own convention, which ultimately means additional funding for our mission,” said Steve Decker, vice president of marketing for RMEF.

ISE President and CEO Brian Layng said, “We look forward to co-locating with RMEF and providing its members, exhibitors, corporate sponsors and the public with the best wildlife and outdoor exposition in North America.”

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 5.7 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.

International Sportsmen’s Exposition

About International Sportsmen’s Expositions
For nearly 35 years ISE has produced America’s premier hunting, fishing and travel shows. Featuring as many as 500 exhibiting companies including leading manufacturers and retailers, guides and outfitters, resorts and lodges, and nonprofit outdoor organizations and groups, each ISE also offers hundreds of seminars, contests, hands-on special features, plus a huge Youth Outdoor Sports Fair that’s dedicated to creating the next generation of responsible outdoor enthusiasts.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont.- -(AmmoLand.com)- ESPN Outdoors has confirmed upcoming daily online coverage, features, photo galleries and live streaming video from “Elk Camp,” the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation’s annual convention and expo, March 4-7, in Reno, Nev.

Coverage will be featured at www.espnoutdoors.com.

Links to the coverage will be provided at the Elk Foundation’s site, www.rmef.org.

ESPN Outdoors will present live streaming video of the RMEF/Leupold World Elk Calling Championships. Preliminary rounds of competition begin at 9:00 a.m. (Pacific time) on March 5; championship rounds at 9:00 a.m. (Pacific time) on March 6.

Elk Camp also includes Cabela’s-sponsored seminars led by authorities on bowhunting and other hunting skills, horse packing, marksmanship, wild game cooking, game calling strategies and more. Also included are displays of record elk, attractions and activities for the whole family, plus a 400-booth expo hall filled with outfitted hunting and fishing opportunities, art, gear, firearms and everything elk.

Daily admission to the event, held at the Reno/Sparks Convention Center, is $12 per person or $25 per family, and free for kids 5 and under.

Show hours: Thurs., March 4, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Fri., March 5, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Sat., March 6, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; and Sun., March 7, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Registered attendees can also enjoy banquets, auctions, entertainment, awards and more.

For more information, visit www.rmef.org.

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 5.7 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.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont.—-(AmmoLand.com)- MidwayUSA, a catalog and Internet retailer with “Just About Everything for Shooting, Re-loading, Gunsmithing and Hunting,” is stepping up its support for conservation as the newest major sponsor of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation 2010 convention.

The RMEF Elk Camp & Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Expo is slated for March 4-7, 2010, at the Reno/Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nev.

The annual event is a primary fundraiser for the RMEF mission to ensure the future of elk, other wildlife and their habitat. MidwayUSA will present the convention’s “Grand Banquet Saturday” on March 6, including the night’s featured performance by country music star Sara Evans.

“Larry Potterfield and the entire staff at MidwayUSA continue to demonstrate a deep commitment to conservation and America’s hunting heritage. We’re very grateful for their partnership,” said Steve Decker, director of field programs for the Elk Foundation.

MidwayUSA also is the presenting sponsor of the RMEF TV show, Elk Chronicles.

“Dad taught me to hunt and fish and I’ve had a lifelong passion for the outdoors since,” said Larry Potterfield, founder and CEO of MidwayUSA. “Brenda and I have been fortunate enough to spend time in elk country and we are excited to do what we can to support the mission of RMEF.”

For more info about MidwayUSA, visit www.midwayusa.com or call 1-800-243-3220.

The RMEF Elk Camp & Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Expo will feature 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 for one of the nation’s premier conservation organizations—RMEF recently topped 5.6 million acres of elk habitat conserved or enhanced.

For details, visit www.rmef.org.

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 5.6 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.

Pennsylvania Elk Hunting Pic: www.lone-pineoutfitters.com

Pennsylvania Game Commission

HARRISBURG, PA –-(AmmoLand.com)- Pennsylvania Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe today announced that 44 of the 60 licensed elk hunters were successful during the 2009 elk season. Of that total, 20 were antlered elk and 24 were antlerless elk.

“Elk are one of North America’s premier big game animals,” Roe said. “Pennsylvania is privileged to offer this unique hunting opportunity, a product of successful wildlife management that helps to finance wildlife conservation and supports Pennsylvania’s rich hunting heritage. It’s an unparalleled experience for hunters, particularly those who can’t afford to go on an expensive one- or two-week guided elk hunt out West.

“This year’s overall success rate was 73 percent, which is down slightly from the past year, which I believe that this can be attributed to the improved food conditions this year throughout the elk range, thanks in large part to the decline in gypsy moth defoliation.”

Along with extracting samples needed for disease testing, the agency also collected samples necessary to examine food preferences and habitat use by elk. Also, hunters collected liver samples that will be evaluated for mineral contents.

The largest antlered elk was taken by Reed Bamburger, of Graysville, Greene County. He took a 652-pound (dressed weight), 8×9 on Nov. 2, in Covington Township, Clearfield County.

Those hunters rounding out the top five heaviest antlered elk harvested, were: Lisa Banasick, of Connellsville, Fayette County, took a 643-pound, 9×11 on Nov. 5, in Gibson Township, Cameron County; Ronald Werkheiser Jr., of Hellertown, Northampton County, took a 617-pound, 7×7 on Nov. 4, in Karthaus Township, Clearfield County; Kenneth E. Hunter, of Muncy, Lycoming County, took a 604-pound, 8×8 on Nov. 3, in Jay Township, Elk County; and Alvin Hubler, of Munson, Clearfield County, took a 589-pound, 6×7 on Nov. 3, in Benezette Township, Elk County.

The heaviest antlerless elk was taken by Larry Davis, of Fairborn, Ohio, who harvested a 474-pound (dressed weight) antlerless elk on Nov. 3, in Benezette Township, Elk County.

Those hunters rounding out the top five heaviest antlerless elk harvested were: Gary Weikert, of Arendtsville, Adams County, who harvested a 444-pound antlerless elk on Nov. 4, in Covington Township, Clearfield County; Randolph Maus, of Halifax, Dauphin County, who harvested a 413-pound antlerless elk on Nov. 5, in Gibson Township, Cameron County; Ronald VanDyke, of Harrisville, Butler County, who harvested a 403-pound antlerless elk on Nov. 2, in Gibson Township, Cameron County; Scott Hite, of Port Republic, Maryland, who harvested a 398-pound antlerless elk on Nov. 5, in Gibson Township, Cameron County; and Adam Palyo, of Jefferson Hills, Allegheny County, who also harvested a 398-pound antlerless elk on Nov. 6 in Grove Township, Cameron County.

Roe also noted that Jim Nyce, of Green Lane, Montgomery County, who was the successful bidder for the first-ever Elk Conservation Tag, harvested an antlered elk, as well. Nyce harvested a 6×6 on Oct. 14, in Benezette Township, Elk County. Nyce purchased the Conservation Elk Tag during the National Wild Turkey Federation’s national conference in early 2009, and was able to hunt from Sept. 1-Nov. 7.

For more information on elk in Pennsylvania, visit the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us), choose “Hunting,” and then click on the photograph of an elk.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont.—-(AmmoLand.com)- She used to cry when her father came home with a dead deer.

Now she’s the first woman hunter to bag an elk in Tennessee in at least 144 years. Tami Miller of Franklin, Tenn., hopes her story will inspire other women to take up hunting.

“It’s hard to get a babysitter at 4:30 in the morning but the experience of hunting is worth the trouble,” laughs Miller. “My husband introduced me to hunting. It has definitely enhanced our marriage and our family life. It’s something we can share, something that brings us all together in the outdoors. I wish more women would try it.”

She added, “Hunting is exciting. It’s empowering and it’s beautiful. When you’re out there at sunrise, and it’s so quiet you can hear a leaf falling from a tree, it’s priceless.”

Miller and her husband, both avid conservationists and supporters of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, in October participated in the state’s first elk hunt in modern times.

Elk disappeared from Tennessee in 1865 following years of habitat changes and unregulated hunting. In the 1990s, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and RMEF began an historic effort to restore a wild herd to the Volunteer State. By 2009 the population had expanded enough for hunters to take five surplus bulls. Four permits were awarded via random drawing, one via auction on eBay.

Knowing that auction proceeds would fund elk and habitat conservation, Andrew Miller didn’t mind paying $17,700 for the permit—or giving the permit to Tami as a special gift.

“My husband and I scouted together through September and October and I grew more and more excited about the hunt. The historical aspects were always on my mind. I thought about the women who walked these hills a long time ago, hunting for elk so their families could survive. I felt honored to represent them,” said Miller.

When the hunt day arrived, Miller joined the four other hunters—all male—in a group elk camp co-sponsored by RMEF and staffed by volunteers.

“I was a little worried about being accepted. I wondered if the men would think I was pushing my way into their fraternity. But everyone was supportive and wonderful. I met so many great people who really wanted me to succeed,” she said, adding, “I was actually surprised at how many people were watching to see how the woman hunter would do. In my hometown, girls and women that I didn’t even know were coming up and wishing me luck.”

When all four of the men killed their bull on the first day, but Tami hadn’t even seen an elk yet, anxiety simmered as she worried about letting people down.

“Hunting isn’t all about getting an animal but I didn’t want to be the only hunter who didn’t get an elk. I probably should have prayed for help finding a big bull. But, the next morning, as my husband and I hunted together in a beautiful place, with the colors of fall all around us, the stress melted away and I just thanked God for this day,” she said.

At dusk, after a long stalk, with her husband and two friends by her side, Miller finally steadied crosshairs on a bull elk, an animal many times larger than her. She was nervous. As her husband had taught her years before, she drew two deep breaths, then held the third and squeezed the trigger.

When the rifle spoke, the elk was hers.

“When I started hunting, I knew it would be fun to get outdoors with my husband and watch him doing something he loved, but I wasn’t sure I could kill an animal. Since then, I’ve learned that I can be a provider, too. I can bring food home to my family,” she said.

Miller’s 5×6 certainly wasn’t the biggest bull in the Tennessee woods but it will always symbolize an enormously important part of her life:

“Marriage is about sharing things, and, for us, hunting has become one of those things.”

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 5.6 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.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont.—-(AmmoLand.com)- Flu is on everyone’s mind this autumn. So for hunters who start feeling lousy upon arrival in elk camp, the diagnosis may seem obvious.

But, like skiers and mountain climbers, elk hunters at high elevations also are prone to altitude sickness with symptoms that look and feel like the flu—headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, coughing, shortness of breath and trouble sleeping.

Ways to prevent the flu are well publicized, and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is offering the following tips for avoiding altitude sickness.

Altitude sickness is caused by thin air at high elevations. Your body must work harder to maintain normal oxygen levels in the blood. Breathing and pulse rates increase. Still, the lack of oxygen can knock a hunter down especially if they go too hard too soon.

“Most of us live at a much lower elevation than elk do. That alone puts many hunters at a disadvantage even before they begin their first stalk,” said Cameron Hanes, a fitness and bowhunting authority as well as TV show host and columnist for RMEF.

Hanes says most sufferers adapt to high altitude by the fourth day. The following tips can help you make better use of your first three days in elk country.

• When you arrive in high country, avoid physical exertion for the first 24 hours. This can be tough when you’ve been looking forward to the hunt all year, so if you can’t or won’t take a full day to adjust, be smart. Don’t go full bore right out of the gate.
• Hunt high, sleep low. At elevations above 5,000 feet, try to gain no more than 2,000 feet per day. You can hunt higher as long as you go back down 2,000 feet to sleep.
• Ascend very slowly past 8,000 feet. Acclimatize yourself. Acclimatization helps cells get along on a smaller oxygen budget. By gaining altitude slowly, your body will adjust gradually with few if any symptoms of altitude sickness.
• If traveling by air to a hunt above 8,000 feet, try to incorporate a layover of one to two days at an intermediate altitude.
• Drink water copiously and constantly.
• • Avoid alcohol for the first few days. Alcohol dehydrates you and drinking at high altitudes amplifies its affect.
• Consume a high-carbohydrate diet. Lots of granola bars, trail mix, etc.
• The prescription drug acetazolamide (Diamox) can be helpful as a preventive treatment but always consult with your doctor first.
• Fitness at sea level doesn’t guarantee an easier time when you’re at 10,000 feet, but being in good shape makes it more likely that your lungs can cope with the challenges of the high life.

If these tips don’t work, and if your symptoms persist even at lower altitudes, you may indeed have the flu.

Hanes serves RMEF as host of “Elk Chronicles” on Outdoor Channel and as a columnist for “Bugle” magazine. His second book, “Backcountry Bowhunting, A Guide to the Wild Side,” is currently in its fifth printing and is available at www.cameronhanes.com.

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 5.6 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.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont.— -(AmmoLand.com)- Elk and elk hunting opportunities are plentiful across the U.S. and Canada, and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation has just released its annual roundup of hunt forecasts for 27 states and provinces, newly posted at www.rmef.org.

“Elk herds are in great shape across most of the West, thanks to a mild winter and normal moisture. And, of course, the ongoing habitat stewardship projects supported by our members and volunteers have helped, too,” said David Allen, president and CEO of the Elk Foundation.

This summer, RMEF passed the 5.6 million acre mark for elk habitat conserved or enhanced.

Storylines within the Elk Foundation’s 2009 elk hunt forecast include the amazing herd growth following elk restoration efforts in Kentucky, wolf impacts on elk and hunting in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming, massive elk populations in Colorado and the trophy bull reputations of Arizona and Utah.

Here’s a condensed look at forecasts from top states and provinces for total elk populations. To see all the reports in their entirety, including contact information for respective conservation agencies, visit www.rmef.org. For even more hutning including sidebars, see the Sept./Oct. 2009 edition of the RMEF member magazine, Bugle.

Alberta
Elk Population: 20,000
Bull/Cow Ratios: N/A
Nonresidents: $298 and must be accompanied by an Alberta resident Hunter Host or licensed guide.
Southwestern Alberta has a reputation for big bulls where elk are managed to ensure that plenty of bulls live long enough to reach their full potential. A little farther north, some impressive bulls are killed each year in the Peace River area. Warmer and drier than normal conditions over most of the province brought elk through the winter in great shape. Expect good hunting prospects this season for trophy bulls and cows.

Arizona
Elk Population: 25,000
Bull/Cow Ratios: 35 to 40/100
Nonresidents: $151 hunting license (nonrefundable to enter drawing) plus $595 elk permit.
Arizona has one of the finest reputations in the nation as a trophy-producing destination. Any unit has potential for big bulls. More specifically, the units surrounding Flagstaff have been good. Units 1 and 27 on the east side, and 3A, 3B and 3C around Pine Top are units to consider as well. Arizona has seen favorable conditions for elk over the past several years and elk populations are stable in most regions. Elk numbers are increasing in the east-central portion of the state but additional antlerless tags are not being issued because biologists want more elk in this area.

British Columbia
Elk Population: 50,000
Bull/Cow Ratios: 20/100
Nonresidents: $189 hunting license, plus $277 elk tag. Must hire a licensed guide, or in certain cases may be accompanied by a resident hunter.
Coastal British Columbia saw significant snowpack but nothing terribly out of the ordinary for wintering elk. Over the central and southern portions of the province, snowfall was normal to slightly below normal. Elk herds are burgeoning in productive habitat. Elk are especially abundant in the Kootenay region, an attractive area for trophy hunters where bull harvest is limited to animals carrying at least six tines on at least one antler. Many trophy areas in British Columbia offer rifle hunting during the rut, an option that has become increasingly rare in North America, with a few notable exceptions.

California
Elk Population: 1,500 Rocky Mountain Elk,
6,000 Roosevelt’s, 3,900 Tule
Bull/Cow Ratios: 20 to 90/100
Nonresidents: $143 nonrefundable hunting license plus $1,163 elk tag.
The state’s coveted elk tags are in short supply, making general drawing odds slim. There are three auction tags: one for Grizzly Island, one for Owens Valley and one multiple-zone tag in which recipients can choose to hunt one of the three sub-species. A proposal is afoot to allow nonresidents to purchase landowner tags for 2010, a move that could increase access for those who can afford an outfitter. Lucky residents who pull an elk tag can expect excellent conditions this fall. Elk populations are stable to increasing in all areas. Elk are also increasing in the Lake Pillsbury region, where a new hunting area may be opened next fall.

Colorado
Elk Population: 280,000
Bull/Cow Ratios: 25/100
Nonresidents: $546 bull tag, $251 antlerless.
Colorado offers a bit of everything. Limited-entry, tough-to-draw tags provide a legitimate shot at a world-class bull in some units, such as those in the northwest corner of the state, but hunters need 15 to 20 preference points to draw. Over-the-counter tags are widely available, giving hunters a shot at a bull. Most will be spikes and raghorns but mature bulls can be found in these hard-hunted units. The state also allots a plethora of antlerless licenses—though around 10,000 less than last year—giving meat hunters excellent odds. Hunters should have more opportunity at mature bulls this year as the harvest was generally down last year because of weather.

Idaho
Elk Population: 107,000
Bull/Cow Ratios: 10 to 50/100
Nonresidents: $142 hunting license plus $373 elk tag.
Have wolves eaten all the elk in Idaho? Not even close, says Brad Compton of Idaho Fish and Game. “We still have some good elk hunting. Wolves have had an impact on our herds in some parts of the state, but they’ve not been decimated like it’s been publicized.” Elk populations are fairly stable statewide with areas of western Idaho trending upward, while wolves have had the biggest impact on the Lolo and Sawtooth zones on the Idaho/Montana border. For 2009, caps will occur on tags offered in the Sawtooth and Diamond Creek elk zones. Idaho elk hunters enjoy around a 20 percent success rate on average. In an area such as the Lolo zone, elk are holing up more often in security cover. Compton suggests hunters who enjoy hunting whitetails in cover should try the same tactics for elk.

Kentucky
Elk Population: 10,000
Bull/Cow Ratios: 35 to 40/100 (branch-antlered)
Nonresidents: $130 hunting license plus $365 elk tag.
Kentucky’s herd in the 16-county elk restoration zone could soon hit 11,000 animals. Giant typical and nontypical bulls are killed each season, making the state’s elk hunt wildly popular. With such robust numbers, Kentucky is upping its tag offerings by a large portion this season, boosting available licenses by more than 50 percent. The state will offer 250 bull permits and 750 antlerless permits, with 10 percent of the tags going to out of staters. Those who don’t draw can look to landowners who auction their permits or to auctioned Commissioner Tags.

Montana
Elk Population: 150,000
Bull/Cow Ratios: 5 to 25/100
Nonresidents: $593 for regular drawing, $1,500 for outfitter sponsored tags.
Elk populations in Montana remain at or above management objectives in most areas, but many hunters will have to work harder to find elk this fall. Quentin Kujala of Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks says tough wintering conditions in portions of western Montana decreased the number of yearling animals. Some areas will no longer offer over the counter, either-sex tags. Wolf impacts near Yellowstone National Park appear to be stressing elk populations. Anecdotal evidence from popular hunting grounds in the Snowcrest, Ruby, Centennial and Gravelly ranges suggest that wolves are dispersing elk in ways that make for tougher hunting. Finding a mature bull will remain tough in the region between Butte and Boulder, where extensive road access keeps bull/cow ratios extremely low. All in all, though, Treasure State hunters can expect a fine season.

Nevada
Elk Population: 11,000
Bull/Cow Ratio: 40/100
Nonresidents: $142 hunting license plus $1,200 bull tag or $500 antlerless tag.
With a 14 percent increase in adult elk numbers and a slight boost in bull/cow ratios from 2008, Nevada’s elk are thriving. Most areas have seen modest herd expansion with fairly rapid growth in Elko County. About 75 percent of the state’s elk are located in the eastern part of the state, where massive fires have converted brushlands to grasslands, hurting mule deer but boosting elk numbers. All of the state’s elk tags are issued by lottery. No matter where you hunt, the outlook is as good this season as it’s been in years.

New Mexico
Elk Population: 80,000
Bull/Cow Ratio: 45/100
Nonresidents: $547 standard bull tag, $772 quality bull tag.
For elk hunters, the “Land of Enchantment” lives up to its nickname with great opportunities to hunt elk in unique habitat, with potential for big bulls. From a management perspective, units fall into two categories: “quality” units that are managed for bigger bulls with low hunter densities, and “opportunity” units that have higher tag allotments to give more people a shot at an elk. Hunter success rates typically run from 35 to 50 percent in the quality units with many of the bulls killed being 6 years old or older. But hunters in the opportunity units do very well by most standards. Success rates run from about 12-30 percent. Overall, the state’s elk population is stable to slightly increasing.

Oregon
Elk Population: 120,000
Bull/Cow Ratios: 12 to 30/100
Nonresidents: $439.
Oregon’s elk population trend has been stable over the past decade. The state’s herd is split almost equally between the Roosevelt’s sub-species in the west and Rocky Mountain to the east, groups that see notably different management. For the most part, general season hunting with over-the-counter licenses reigns in the west, while limited-entry regulations dominate in the east. Bowhunting is the exception, with most areas open to archers carrying a general tag. “Conditions should be fair to good, similar to last year,” says Test. Success rates are higher in limited entry units, but hover around 10 percent for general season hunting.

Saskatchewan
Elk Population: 15,000
Bull/Cow Ratio: 20/100
No nonresident tags available.
Saskatchewan’s elk fared well last winter. Snowpack across the province was variable but didn’t adversely affect elk populations. During the winter of 2008, two elk in the Nipawin area were found dead. Both tested positive for chronic wasting disease (CWD), the first confirmed cases of the disease in free-ranging elk in the province. However, wildlife officials have been monitoring CWD for nearly 10 years after a mule deer in the Manitou Hills tested positive. Although the disease has the potential to adversely affect elk numbers, massive die-offs aren’t likely. CWD has plagued elk in several states, including parts of Colorado, without the disastrous effects some biologists predicted when it was discovered. Elk populations remain healthy and growing across the province, with a fine hunting season predicted for this fall.

Utah
Elk Population: 67,000
Bull/Cow Ratios: 15 to 80/100
Nonresidents: $65 hunting license, plus $388 general tag, $795 limited entry tag, or $1,500 premium limited entry tag (allows hunting in all weapon seasons within a unit).
Utah is viewed by many hunters as one of the top destinations for trophy bulls, especially after last fall’s “Spider Bull” became the new world’s record nontypical. Elk enjoy rich habitat with populations stable or trending upward across the state. Permits are limited but over-the-counter bull tags are available if you’re willing to take a spike. New for 2009 is a regulation change that also allows the harvest of spike bulls in limited-entry units with an over-the-counter tag. Fewer unlimited areas allow hunting for any bull. Most of these are found in designated wilderness areas on the north and south slopes of the Uinta Mountains, where success rates run around 15 percent.

Washington
Elk Population: 58,000
Bull/Cow Ratios: 12 to 20/100 in most units
Nonresidents: $396.
Bull/cow ratios are at management objectives nearly everywhere. Couple that with a snowy but manageable winter where no areas suffered above average mortality, and hunters should expect a favorable hunting season. Bull/cow ratios in some Blue Mountains areas are running the highest in the state. Overall elk numbers remain stable in the Evergreen State with slight increases in the northeast and some decreases in the southwest where managers have moved aggressively to trim the herd in the Mt. St. Helens area. Washington still offers over the counter bull tags for Roosevelt’s elk in the west and Rocky Mountain elk in the east. Bulls in the west must have at least three points on one antler, while spikes-only can be taken on a general tag in the east.

Wyoming
Elk Population: 105,000
Bull/Cow Ratios: 11 to 40/100
Nonresidents: $577 for regular drawing, $1057 for special drawing, $288 for cow/calf.
Cowboy State elk populations are at or above objective and elk hunting opportunities have never been higher. Antlerless tags are abundant. Hunters can anticipate an exceptional elk season, with a few exceptions. Jeff Obrecht of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department cautions that access to the elk-factory Laramie Peak area is problematic with public lands highly fragmented and private lands heavily leased. Reduced forage on winter range left elk struggling in the southwest. Bull-to-cow ratios remain low east of Jackson where biologists are observing just 11 bulls to 100 cows. Leftover tags (after the drawing in 2009) went on sale on a first-come, first-served basis in early July.

One of the most notable changes in elk country for 2009 could be a wolf hunt in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming. Stay tuned to the respective state wildlife agencies for news and details. RMEF is a vocal supporter of state-regulated hunting to manage restored populations of gray wolves. For more info, visit www.rmef.org.

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 5.6 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.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont.- -(AmmoLand.com)- Black bears, grizzlies, cougars, wolves, coyotes—just some of the potential looters you may find skulking around the scene of your next successful elk hunt. These tips from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation will help keep meat stealers away from your elk carcass.

“Deterring predators ensures all that hard-won protein ends up in your freezer, but personal safety is a factor, too. If you hunt in grizzly country, for example, it’s worth minimizing the risk of surprising a bear that has claimed your kill,” said P.J. DelHomme, hunting editor of the Elk Foundation’s member magazine, Bugle.

Here are five tips for discouraging marauding carnivores:

1. Hang quarters at an unreachable height 100 yards or more from the entrails, etc. Parachute chord works well; it’s small, light, cheap and strong enough for the job. Bring way more than you think you need. Try to select a hanging tree in a relatively open area that can be glassed from at least 300 yards away. If no trees are available, you can hang quarters off a rimrock ledge, too. Prime cuts of meat should get the first trip out.

2. When safe and legal, build a fire next to the quarters. Burn damp, pitchy wood that produces a good plume of smoke. This detracts predators and helps you locate the site on your return trip. Remember to mark the site in your GPS and take compass bearings as a backup.

3. Leave an article of clothing with the quarters, preferably something that’s been close to your skin and absorbed your scent. A brightly colored item also helps you locate the site. Urinate nearby to further saturate the area with human smell.

4. Many hunters won’t carry their rifle or bow once their elk tag has been punched. However, when returning to a carcass, consider carrying a handgun or bear spray for personal protection in case you encounter a defiant critter. Be as noisy and obnoxious as possible as you approach the site. Clap your hands. Sing as loud as you can.

5. Be ready to back off. An elk carcass is never worth fighting over. If a looter is adamant that it needs the meat more than you do, or has rendered your elk unsalvageable, check the state’s hunting regulations. A game warden may issue you a new elk permit.

Additionally, if legal, you may have an opportunity to add the predator to your game bag. Remember that many predator populations need management via state-regulated hunting, same as elk. The Elk Foundation is a vocal supporter of this system for managing restored populations of gray wolves in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming, too.

Bugle magazine is a wealth of elk hunting and conservation information. An annual subscription is included with a $35 membership to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. For details, visit www.rmef.org.

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 5.6 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.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

MISSOULA, Mont.— -(AmmoLand.com)- If you’re a tenderfoot looking to use horses for your elk hunt this fall, do yourself—and your horse—a favor. Follow these 10 tips from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and longtime supporter Smoke Elser, who’s been guiding and outfitting in Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness for more than 50 years.

1. Consider taking a riding lesson before your hunt. Learn the basics of mounting and dismounting, reins, leg cues, proper balance and body position. A horse is not an easy chair—a little preparation and skill are required.

2. Be realistic. Even though your horse can carry you over difficult terrain, it cannot carry you over impossible terrain. You’ll need to hike across the steepest, roughest areas. Hopefully, you’re in shape.

3. Stirrup length should be adjusted at the trailhead. Don’t be bashful about insisting on a comfortable fit that allows you to stand up slightly in the stirrups. Having your knees hunched up can be miserable for you and your horse.

4. Horses are a means of transportation from point A to point B, not to the elk. Don’t expect to shoot from atop your pony like Buffalo Bill. In fact, firing a rifle anywhere near horses can be disastrous. Your actual hunt will need to be on foot.

5. Think about clothing. Bring boots that fit easily into stirrups and wear clothing that allows you to mount and dismount easily. For example, coveralls constrict motion and should be avoided. Keeping quiet and warm are factors, too, and wool clothing is both even when wet. Also bring a broad-brimmed hat to help ward off branches to the face and snow down the neck.

6. Let your guide do the saddling and unsaddling. Often hunters want to help but end up improperly cinching, dragging saddles through mud, disassembling bridles down to the last buckle, etc., causing extra work for the guide. Don’t pretend knowledge of horses and tack if you have none.

7. Always let your guide tie up your horse for you. Improper tying can result in a dead or injured horse if they get choked or tangled. More commonly, hunters return to find only the guide’s horse still there. That could mean a long hike back for one of you.

8. Bring a rifle that fits easily into a scabbard. Oversized scopes or bipods will require disassembly and are impractical. If in doubt, ask your outfitter to recommend appropriate rifles and other gear.

9. Bring what you need, but you don’t need the kitchen sink. Nearly every elk outfitter has funny stories about hunters who insisted on packing things like ice skates, bowling balls, bathrobes, business suits and other nonessentials. But it’s really not funny—overloading is hard on a horse’s loins and kidneys.

10. Wallets in pants pockets tend to work themselves out when you’re riding a horse. Keep your elk tags and personal identification inside your shirt pocket.

Information and tips about elk hunting are regular features inside the Elk Foundation’s bi-monthly member magazine, Bugle. An annual membership, which includes a subscription and base-level support for RMEF habitat conservation efforts, is $35. To join, call 800-CALL ELK or visit www.rmef.org.

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 5.6 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.

JASPER AR - -(AmmoLand.com)- Buffalo River Elk Festival in Jasper and Newton County residents are busy preparing for their annual Buffalo River Elk Festival. The festival is scheduled to begin Friday, June 26, and continue through Saturday, June 27. This year, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission will hold an elk summit workshop during the celebration. The award winning festival began in 1998 to celebrate the successful reintroduction of elk to Newton County and has been an annual event every year since.

The highlight of the festival is the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission drawing for elk hunting permits. The drawings and most of the activities will be at the courthouse square in Jasper with a kids’ fishing derby on the banks of the Little Buffalo River. This year the elk summit workshop will be held at the festival. It will be the culmination of the months-long effort to design a management plan for Arkansas’s elk herd. The elk summit workshop will be held at the Arkansas House in Jasper from 10 a.m. to 12 noon.

Thousands of hopeful elk hunters applied for the permits for this year’s hunt. The public land elk hunt dates are Zones 1, 2, 3, 4: Sept. 21-25 and Dec. 7-11, Private land elk hunts are Zones A, Sept. 21-25 and Dec. 7-11, Zone B and Zone 4, Dec. 7-11.

The drawing for the public land permits will be on Saturday, June 27 at the Newton County Courthouse Square in Jasper, near the Buffalo River and center of Arkansas’s elk country. Persons applying for permits don’t have to be present, but many attend each year, joining in the festivities and activities.

One of the more popular events returns to the festival again this year – the on-site drawing for a permit. One permit will be issued to someone who applies at the Elk Festival in Jasper. Sign up, stick around and you may win a permit. For this permit, the lucky hunter must be present. Just like the other public land elk permits to be drawn, entrants must be an Arkansas resident.

The elk hunting permits will be issued for specific zones along and near the Buffalo River.

About:
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation will be present with several educational programs. For the hunting enthusiasts, drawings for elk permits will be held each hour starting at noon on Saturday.

MISSOULA, Mont.— -(AmmoLand.com)- The long-running CBS News magazine “Sunday Morning” on March 22 is scheduled to feature competitors from the 2009 Leupold/Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation World Elk Calling Championships.

CBS correspondent Bill Geist covered the event held as part of the Elk Foundation’s recent Elk Camp & Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Expo in Fort Worth, Texas.

For local show times, visit www.cbsnews.com. Click on “Sunday Morning.”

Geist, a best-selling humor writer and chronicler of “quirky people and places,” and a CBS crew followed father-and-son elk callers, Greg Hubbell and Greg Hubbell Jr., of Belmont, Calif., leading up to and through the competition.

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 5.7 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.

FORT WORTH, Texas — -(AmmoLand.com)- Amateur and professional elk callers from four states—Arizona, California, Oregon and Utah—have been crowned new world champions.

The Leupold/Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation World Elk Calling Championships concluded March 7 in Fort Worth, Texas. The event was held as part of the Elk Foundation’s 25th Annual Elk Camp & Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Expo.

Results:

Professional Division
1. Al Morris, Payson, Utah
2. Rockie Jacobsen, Kamiah, Ida.
3. Joel Turner, Eatonville, Wash.

Men’s Division
1. Bryan Langley, McMinnville, Ore.
2. Patrick Whitaker, Lebanon, Ore.
3. Cody Rich, Dallas, Ore.

Women’s Division
1. Audrey McQueen, Eagar, Ariz.
2. Misty Waggener, Priest River, Ida.
3. Crystal Hulsey, Luna, N.M.

Natural Voice Division
1. Greg Hubbell Jr., Belmont, Calif.
2. Samuel Valentine, Springer, N.M.
3. Michael Hatten, Elko, Nev.

Youth Division
1. Ross LeValley, Hotchkiss, Ore.
2. Morgan Love, Salida, Colo.
3. Jared Hansen, New Harmony, Utah

Pee Wee Division
1. Brayden Langley, McMinnville, Ore.
2. Wyatt Schearer, Great Falls, Mont.
3. Cole Burford, Fort Worth, Texas

In the competition, amateur-level callers have 30-45 seconds to mimic cow elk sounds, followed by bull sounds. Professionals are required to make specific calls such as barks, whistles and screaming bugles. Most callers blow across a latex reed placed inside the mouth. In the natural voice division, however, no reeds are allowed. A variety of plastic tubes are used like megaphones, giving the sounds realistic resonance. Judges score each competitor anonymously.

The annual event helps raise awareness of elk, habitat and conservation initiatives of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Over the past 25 years, the organization has helped protect or enhance more than 5.7 million acres.

Winners received prizes and cash ranging from $500 to $2,500.

Prize sponsors included Blacks Creek Guide Gear, Cabela’s, Hoyt, Kershaw Knives, Knight, Montana Decoy, Remington and Schnee’s.

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 5.7 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.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

FORT WORTH, Texas - -(OutDoorWire.com)- The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation has generated $1.5 million from its first-ever convention in Texas.

Proceeds from the organization’s 25th Annual Elk Camp & Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Expo, which ended March 8 in Fort Worth, will help support initiatives to ensure the future of elk, other wildlife and their habitat. The Elk Foundation recently topped 5.7 million acres conserved or enhanced.

“Elk Camp is a showcase for our mission, accomplishments and the amazing spirit of our volunteers-and it’s also our largest annual fundraiser. This year our auctions grossed $1.1 million while new memberships, raffles, merchandise sales and public admission fees added another $400,000. We’re pleased considering the new site and economy,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO.

Highlights also included:

· Numerous awards and recognitions for Elk Foundation volunteers.

· Entertainment by country stars Randy Travis, Sawyer Brown and Travis Tritt.

· Appearances by NASCAR’s Richard Childress, Realtree’s Bill Jordan and Dallas Cowboys legend Walt Garrison who helped honor wounded veterans of the Iraq War.

· New winners in the RMEF/Leupold 2009 World Elk Calling Championships, including Al Morris of Payson, Utah, as the top new world champ in the Professional Division.

· Many celebrations of 25 years of conservation successes.

Event sponsors included Roper, Leupold, Cabela’s, Hunter’s Specialties, Mossy Oak, North American Hunter Magazine, Brunton, Browning, Boyt Harness, United Country and Budweiser.

Allen said, “We can’t say thank you enough to our sponsors, exhibitors and attendees for their continuing support. Together, we’re helping to shape the future of elk country.”

The 26th Annual Elk Camp and Expo will be in Reno, Nev., March 4-7, 2010.

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 5.7 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.

MISSOULA, Mont.- -(OutDoorWire.com)- Official measurers from the Boone and Crockett Club will be scoring elk and deer antlers as a service to paid attendees of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation’s 25th Annual Elk Camp & Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Expo, March 7-8.

Scorers will be on hand at the Fort Worth (Texas) Convention Center on Saturday, March 7, from 9:00 to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday, March 8, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

There is no charge for the service.

The Elk Camp & Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Expo runs March 5-8. The event also includes the RMEF/Leupold 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. The Elk Foundation recently topped 5.5 million acres of elk habitat conserved or enhanced.

Daily admission is $12 per person or $25 per family, and free for kids 5 and under.

Show hours: Thurs., March 5, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Fri., March 6, 9:00 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.

For more info, visit www.rmef.org.

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 5.5 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.