Adam Scepaniak 12.27.23
The Rocky Mountain Elk Basis (RMEF) has achieved what some are calling a historic conservation milestone within the hills of the Appalachian Elk Nation as they’ve secured entry to 54,636 acres of personal land in jap Kentucky. These beforehand non-public land acres are actually open to the general public for searching, fishing, and outside recreation because of the collaborative efforts from 4 totally different conservation teams together with the Rocky Mountain Elk Basis (RMEF).
Rocky Mountain Elk Basis (RMEF) Protection on AllOutdoor
Missoula, Montana – Hunters, anglers, hikers and those that benefit from the outside now have perpetual entry to 54,636 acres of personal land in jap Kentucky because of a landscape-scale voluntary conservation settlement by the Kentucky Division of Fish and Wildlife Sources (KDFWR), The Nature Conservancy (TNC), Rocky Mountain Elk Basis (RMEF), and Nationwide Fish and Wildlife Basis (NFWF).
“That is an historic conservation milestone for Kentucky’s elk vary and unimaginable growth of hunter entry within the state. The Cumberland Forest Wildlife Administration Space venture marks a major step in making certain the way forward for Appalachian elk herds, different wildlife, their habitat and searching,” mentioned Kyle Weaver, RMEF president and CEO. “This achievement wouldn’t be doable with out our companions at KDFWR, TNC and NFWF.”
KDFWR is not going to solely handle the acreage for wildlife habitat and public recreation but additionally for sustainable forestry and clear water. The venture connects 274,000 acres of land stretching into neighboring Tennessee.
“This venture is an historic win for nature and folks in Kentucky and represents what our organizations can obtain working collectively,” mentioned David Phemister, state director for The Nature Conservancy in Kentucky. “The biggest conservation easement in Kentucky historical past, this venture will present entry to nature for Kentuckians and guests in perpetuity. I’m happy with this accomplishment and our robust partnership with Rocky Mountain Elk Basis, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, and NFWF.”
Whereas the Cumberland Forest is dwelling to Kentucky’s elk herd, it additionally provides vital habitat for birds together with ruffed grouse and migratory songbirds in addition to quite a few at-risk aquatic species discovered within the many streams that cross the property.
“Acquisition of the Cumberland Forest Wildlife Administration Space is an incredible victory for each wildlife conservation and public entry. It demonstrates how we are able to accomplish a lot extra working collectively than we are able to as particular person organizations,” mentioned KDFWR Commissioner Wealthy Storm. “I need to thank the Kentucky Basic Meeting and all our companions for his or her monetary and different assist to safe this space for present and future generations to get pleasure from.”
The Rocky Mountain Elk Basis (RMEF) provided greater than $2.5 million and vital volunteer assist to assist restore wild, free-ranging elk to their historic Kentucky vary starting in 1997. At this time, that inhabitants is the biggest east of the Mississippi River. By moreover securing hundreds of personal land acres, this opens up extra land to searching, fishing, and outside recreation in addition to future conservation efforts. As at all times, tell us all your ideas in regards to the Rocky Mountain Elk Basis (RMEF) within the Feedback beneath! We at all times recognize your suggestions.
