"The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation has played an important part in protecting millions of acres of elk habitat across the United States and Canada," said Rehberg, a member of the House Appropriations Committee. "Additionally, they have provided numerous acres of new public access for Montana’s hunters and fisherman. These funds will help with key infrastructure needs to RMEF’s facilities so that the foundation can continue to grow."

          Since the organization began in 1984, RMEF has protected and enhanced more than 4.7 million acres of wildlife habitat all across elk country and funded more than 4,900 stewardship, conservation education and hunting heritage projects in 49 states and eight Canadian provinces. Additionally, they have helped open nearly half a million acres for public access and hunting.

          "Montana’s natural resources are part of what make our state so special," said Rehberg. "Organizations like RMEF play a vital role in creating public-private partnerships with the goal of protecting, maintaining, and enhancing these natural resources."