The roping world is full of outdoor sports enthusiasts who
understand the importance of wildlife conservation and who also look forward to
harvesting wild game each season. In a vast majority of ropers, we see the
parallels in passion between the roping arena and the thrill of the hunt.
Beginning in July of 2022, the Ariat World Series of Team
Roping is partnering with the Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) to increase awareness
and help conserve the habitats of mule deer and black-tailed deer.
"The Mule Deer Foundation is proud to be the Official Wildlife
Conservation Sponsor of the WSTR," said John T. Gebhart – Regional Director for
MDF in Arizona and Southern Nevada. "We love to rope and we love to hunt. Our
mission is to ensure the conservation of mule deer, black-tailed deer and their
habitat. MDF is a lot like the World Series of Team Roping in that we want to
preserve the outdoor way of life for future generations."
MDF is committed to sharing its passion for the outdoors
with the knowledge that today's investment will ensure the future of mule deer
and black-tailed deer herds. Whether it is a day on the range shooting targets,
a frosty morning atop a remote mountain, or a shared sunset over the sage
steppe, our community is entrusted with the responsibility to manage our
natural resources and introduce new people to our world.
Each year the Mule Deer Foundation holds events through its
chapters generating funding for its important work to improve habitat for mule
deer, share our passion for hunting and conservation, and engage in public
policy to influence wildlife management at the State and Federal level.
"MDF's habitat work has increased dramatically over the past
five years with millions of dollars hitting the ground for habitat projects. By
focusing on projects in areas that are important migration corridors or
seasonal ranges, prioritizing pre- and post-fire restoration, and improving
water availability, we are making a difference for mule deer, black-tailed
deer, and hundreds of other species that share the western landscapes we love
so much," said MDF President/CEO Joel Pedersen.
To learn more about the Mule Deer Foundation, find an event,
or to become a member of this great organization, visit www.MuleDeer.org or contact John T. Gebhart
at 520.431.0760 or by email at jtgebhart@muledeer.org.
