For Immediate Release: October 28, 2014

Contact: Miles Moretti, miles@muledeer.org or (801) 973-3940

                Marty Holmes, marty@muledeer.org or (719) 221-0732

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Two New Mule Deer Foundation Chapters Formed in Colorado

Salt Lake City, Utah: The Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) now has an even greater presence in Colorado thanks to the formation of new chapters in Loveland/Fort Collins and Woodland Park. The new chapters will help MDF work with the state to strengthen mule deer populations and improve habitat.

“I’m pleased to see two new chapters form at a time when we need more support for our declining mule deer populations in Colorado,” commented Marty Holmes, MDF’s regional director in Colorado. “I hope others will follow their lead and get involved or start new chapters so that we can help reverse this alarming trend in the state.”

The new chapter formed in the Loveland and Fort Collins area is being called the “Buck Stops Here” chapter and they are planning to have their first banquet early in 2015. The first banquet of the Woodland Park Chapter will be held March 14th, 2014 at the Shining Mountain Golf Course in Woodland Park. Both committees continue to grow and looking to recruit hunters that want to take an active role in supporting mule deer conservation.

“My husband and I have hunted in Teller, Douglas and Park counties for years. As a Colorado native, I am seeing the state’s mule deer population decline and mule deer habitat decline and something needs to change,” notes Rose Long, chair of the Woodland Park Chapter. “The communities of Woodland Park, Teller, Park and Douglas counties are very conversation-minded and I feel that we will make a positive impact on mule deer conservation and habitat preservation.”

MDF is actively involved in Colorado Parks & Wildlife’s efforts to develop the West Slope Mule Deer Strategy. A final draft of the plan to improve mule deer populations in Colorado was completed and CPW will now develop management strategies to be approved by the Wildlife Commission for implementation.

“The two new chapters will help expand our base and visibility in the state so we can fund some of the important project proposals that will result from this multi-partnership effort,” concluded Holmes.

For more information about the new chapters or to volunteer, contact Marty Holmes at marty@muledeer.org or (719) 221-0732.

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About MDF 
The Mule Deer Foundation is the only conservation group in North America dedicated to restoring, improving and protecting mule deer and black-tailed deer and their habitat, with a focus on science and program efficiency. MDF is a strong voice for hunters in access, wildlife management and conservation policy issues. MDF acknowledges regulated hunting as a viable management component and is committed to recruitment and retention of youth into the shooting sports and conservation. Get involved at www.muledeer.org or call 1-888-375-3337.