Nearly 100 members and volunteers of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation capped the summer of 2014 by gathering in White Pass, Washington, about 100 miles southeast of Seattle, for the annual RMEF Washington Rendezvous. The White Pass Ski Area was an ideal location because it was an easy trip for most folks and is near the heart of prime winter range for elk.The three-day event kicked off at the Oak Creek Wildlife Area, an area that covers 64,200 acres that is home to elk, mule deer, big horn sheep, mountain goats, grouse, turkey, quail and other small mammals and birds. It is also home to the Oak Creek Feeding Station, a high-fenced area often supported by RMEF grant funding that provides a barrier between winter range and nearby orchard growers and livestock producers. The program is designed to reduce damage to agricultural lands and provide up-close elk viewing opportunities.
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| Photos courtesy Stephanie Pelham |
RMEF co-founders Charlie Decker and Bob Munson welcomed attendees of all ages and thanked them for their dedication to and service for elk and elk country.
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| Charlie recognizes young attendees |
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| Bob welcomes fellow members |
Other highlighted activities included a potluck dinner, an update on elk hoof disease, geo-cache outing, National Archery in the Schools 3-D range, West Seattle Totems Shooting Club range, entertainment, games, dutch oven cooking, raffles, silent auction and other happenings.
Our thanks to all of the good folks in Washington for helping ensure the future of elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage in the Evergreen State.
Our thanks to all of the good folks in Washington for helping ensure the future of elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage in the Evergreen State.
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Mission accomplished: The work crew gets 'er done Rick Godwin of North Puget Sound Chapter receives plaque for becoming an Imperial Habitat Partner Vicki & Bob Munson, Godwin, Charlie & Yvonne Decker (left to right) |
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| Dan Loshbaugh of Sammamish Valley Chapter receives plaque for becoming a Habitat Partner |