Help’s On The Way For Ranchers In Northeastern Wyoming

Wyomingites stick together when times get tough, and this summer, due to summer fires, has been particularly difficult for many in Northeastern Wyoming.

The fires that burned east of the Bighorn Mountains caused significant damage to ranches and wildlife habitat.

These fires have created an emergency situation where quick response is required. MDF is stepping up to help those most affected and is contributing much needed funding to local relief efforts focused on rebuilding and improving fencing, providing seed for burned areas, and preventing annual invasive grasses like cheatgrass from gaining a solid foothold. Ranchers have a huge need for fencing infrastructure to help with managed grazing. Mule deer and other wildlife need continued access to these critical habitats to survive throughout the year. Wildlife friendly fences are required both for the livelihood of the ranchers as well as to enable wildlife to saftley move across this landscape.  This situation also presents the unique opportunity for MDF to move in immediately after the fire to prevent noxious invasive vegetation taking over while encouranging native plant growth.

The MDF and one of their partners, Big Lost Meadery, have kicked off the giving by donating $20,000 to start fundraising. The goal is to hit $60,000 by the end of October, but obviously, anything over that is even better.

If you'd like to help, the Mule Deer Foundation, the money raised in this campaign will help restore wildlife, landscapes, and ranchers affected by these horrible fires.

You can click this link to participate in the Mule Deer Foundation's Northern Wyoming Wildlife Relief Effort. You will be directed to a secure donation page on the MDF website.

If you have any questions or need more information, contact MDF Wyoming Senior Regional Director Shawn Blajszcak.