CLEARFIELD, Utah, September 18, 2026 — The Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) applauds provisions in the Administration’s new Executive Order, “Reinvigorating America’s Hunting Heritage,” that supports improved habitat, wildlife connectivity, and access for sportsmen and women across the country.
The executive order signed September 17, 2026, directs federal agencies to work with states and partners to expand hunting and outdoor recreation opportunities while addressing several challenges facing game species and their habitats.
For mule deer, provisions reflected in Sec. 4 of the order focus on:
- Improving habitat connectivity – “Voluntary removal or reduction of barriers to wildlife movement and habitat connectivity.”
- Reducing invasive species – “Reduction of invasive species, habitat degradation, disease, and other factors contributing to population declines.”
- Utilizing proven habitat-management tools – “Use of prescribed fire, vegetation management, water development, grazing, agricultural practices, and appropriate habitat-management tools.”
- Partnering with private landowners and producers to work across boundaries – “Voluntary agreements with private landowners and agricultural producers.”
“Growing mule deer and other game populations requires healthy habitat and strong partnerships. We appreciate President Trump and his Administration’s focus on working with states, landowners, and conservation partners to address the factors limiting these herds. The Mule Deer Foundation stands ready to help deliver measurable conservation results.” Said Greg Sheehan, President & CEO, Mule Deer Foundation.
In addition, the executive order also includes language and provisions around Increasing hunting access and protecting the use of lead ammunition where appropriate. Expanding access, increasing opportunities for hunters, and enhancing proven habitat management applications closely aligns with the conservation work the Mule Deer Foundation has been doing across the West for nearly 38 years. We’re excited that the order promotes the kind of work and relationships that drive our mission daily, to help restore degraded landscapes, improve connectivity, and create more resilient habitat for mule deer and other wildlife. MDF is encouraged to see the order prioritize the kind of work and partnerships that drive mission delivery every day: restoring landscapes, improving habitat connectivity, and creating more resilient habitat for mule deer and other wildlife.
About the Mule Deer Foundation
The Mule Deer Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring the conservation of mule deer, black-tailed deer, and their habitat. Through science-based management, partnerships, and community engagement, MDF works to enhance wildlife populations and maintain healthy, connected landscapes for future generations.
