Science is Conservation
Since our founding, MDF has been at the forefront of conservation efforts, driven by a science-first approach that informs every project we undertake. Our dedication to rigorous research and data-driven strategies ensures that our work is effective and sustainable, making a lasting impact on mule deer populations and their ecosystems.
Successful conservation is not a solitary endeavor
Our success is built on strong partnerships with state and federal agencies, as well as the unwavering support of our members. Together, we have made significant strides in protecting mule deer and black-tailed deer populations, securing their habitats, and promoting sustainable wildlife management practices.
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Blog & News
Latest in Conservation
Mule Deer Foundation Receives $500,000 From the Salt River Project to Expand Forest Restoration and Watershed Resiliency in Central Arizona
The Salt River Project has awarded the Mule Deer Foundation $500,000 to expand forest restoration efforts in Prescott National Forest.
St. Patricks Day Mule Deer Reuben
Nothing says happy St. Patrick’s Day like a warm Mule Deer Reuben sandwich. I make these every year multiple times a year and they are always a big hit with the family. This is a great use of your harvest to celebrate a holiday and share your passion for conservation and the outdoors with a wider audience.
Restoring Sagebrush Steppe in Central Nevada
In the remote heart of central Nevada, Little Fish Lake Valley stretches for more than 40 miles, bordered by north–south running mountain ranges. The vast landscape is defined by open sagebrush and rugged beauty and yet has a conifer encroachment issue. This valley is just one of several mule deer winter ranges in this region, each valley lined with mountain summer ranges.
Wildlife Funnel Fencing Innovation in Central Idaho
The Idaho-Montana border is a migratory hot zone. The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) has collected years of collared data from elk, mule deer, pronghorn, and moose moving across this area. It is well-known that the Beaverhead mule deer herd crosses the border each spring to summer in Montana and then returns to Idaho each fall to winter around the Lemhi Valley. This remote part of the state includes small towns with private lands surrounded by public lands, making wildlife crossings on Highway 28 a dangerous endeavor for wildlife and drivers.
Federal Ammunition Continues Conservation Partnership with Mule Deer Foundation
Federal Ammunition and the Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) announced the continuation of their long-standing conservation partnership supporting mule deer, black-tailed deer, and the habitats they depend on across the West.
Western Hunting and Conservation Expo Recap and New “Vanishing” Focus for Organization
While the Expo is critical for funding mule deer conservation projects across the West, its proceeds and projects also benefit many other Western big game species. The best way to be part of this renewed focus to reverse the decline of this iconic species is to become a member, donate, or volunteer with MDF, as it is the only national organization in North America solely dedicated to the restoration, conservation, and management of mule deer and black-tailed deer populations and their habitat.
The Vanishing Icon of the West
Across the West, a growing tension has emerged between what many hunters see on the landscape and what state wildlife agencies report through their population estimation models. Are mule deer truly in decline, and can we turn the trend around?
The Long Game: A 5–10 Year Draw Plan for Mule Deer
Want to draw better mule deer tags without wasting years or money? The Mule Deer Foundation breaks down a practical 5–10 year draw strategy, comparing Wyoming’s preference point system with Idaho’s lottery-style draw to help you hunt more consistently while building toward a dream tag.