SCelk.org
Your South Carolina Link to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation


Media contact: Audi Clemens, 803-360-5461 aclemens@apmllc.net

CSRA Conservationists Launch Elk Foundation Chapter

MISSOULA, Mont.—Aiken, S.C., is the home of the newest chapter of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

The Montana-based organization focuses on habitat enhancement and protection mainly in the West, as well as conservation education and hunting heritage projects nationwide. The Elk Foundation also was a major partner in restoring elk herds to Kentucky, Tennessee and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

“Wild elk haven’t roamed the South Carolina landscape for well over a century, but the species remains an inspiration for conservationists across the southeast and right here in the CSRA,” said Audi Clemens, an Edgefield resident who chairs the new Elk Foundation chapter.

The newly chartered Aiken chapter, along with more than 550 existing chapters across the U.S., will help raise conservation awareness and organize local fundraisers. Portions of proceeds will fund a state grants program for conservation and education projects in South Carolina.

Planning has already begun for a fundraising event in fall 2009.

Clemens said, “Elk Foundation events are always a good time for a great cause. That’s why the organization has grown to over 150,000 members, impacted over 5.5 million acres of habitat and become one of America’s premier forces for conservation. We’re proud that the CSRA (Central Savannah River Area) is now an official part of the movement.”

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation: Snowy peaks, dark timber basins and grassy meadows. RMEF is leading an elk country initiative that has conserved or enhanced habitat on over 5.5 million acres—a land area equivalent to a swath three miles wide and stretching along the entire Continental Divide from Canada to Mexico. RMEF also works to open, secure and improve public access for hunting, fishing and other recreation. Get involved at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.