Empowering Chapters
Chapter Rewards funds could be used by Chapters, MDF Partners, or MDF Staff to support conservation projects that help contribute to the MDF mission. Chapter involvement in identifying potential projects, developing proposals, and assisting with implementation is a key part of the success of MDF at the local level. These Chapter projects are also a great way to publicize MDF’s conservation efforts to members, the public, and MDF conservation partners.
Collaborative Proposal
Proposals for the use of Chapter Rewards program funding should be developed in coordination with MDF Regional Directors, MDF Conservation staff, State Chairs, and chapter committees to ensure that proposals support the MDF mission at the local, regional, or national level and across the range of mule deer and black-tailed deer. We have developed Program Guidelines to clarify how the Chapter Rewards program works and things to keep in mind when developing and submitting a project proposal.
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Mule Deer Foundation Supports the Department of the Interior’s SO 3447 to Expand Hunting and Fishing Access in National Wildlife Refuge System Lands
The Mule Deer Foundation will improve 1,200 acres of critical mule deer winter range thanks to Eagle Ranch HOA.
Mule Deer Foundation and the California Wildlife Conservation Board Accelerate Fencing Project in Northeast California
Mule Deer Foundation receives a $2.9 million grant from the State of California Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) to accelerate fencing improvements for wildlife migrations in northeast California.
First Mule Deer: What New Hunters Should Focus On
There’s a moment that sticks with you when you take someone on their first mule deer hunt. It usually isn’t the shot. It’s earlier than that, cold air, thin light, and a quiet ridge where everything still feels possible.
I’ve taken kids and adult-onset hunters out for their first crack at mule deer, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: success isn’t measured the way people think it is. At least not at first.
If you’re introducing someone to mule deer hunting, or stepping into it yourself, there are three things that matter more than anything else. Get these right, and the rest will come.
Behind Every Cast—A Little Healing
My youngest son’s face went pale as the treble hook from his lure buried itself into the meat of my forearm. He dropped his rod, eyes wide with panic, lips starting to quiver. I took a deep breath—not because it didn’t hurt, but because I could see the fear in his eyes. That fear hurt worse than the hook.