Colorado Parks and Wildlife Recipient of $25,000 Mule Deer Association Partnership Grant
Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s commitment to working with its partners to achieve common goals has netted the Colorado Mule Deer Association a $25,000 grant. CPW was given one-time funding from the state legislature to support hunting and angling organizations as they continue their outreach toward novice hunters, including minority and underserved youth throughout Colorado.
CMDA applied and competed for grant funding along with several other outdoor related organizations from across the state. The funds will assist the Grand Junction based non-profit organization as they continue offering a variety of programs and projects that directly benefits Colorado’s wildlife and sportsmen and women of all ages and backgrounds.
“For many years, the Colorado Mule Deer Association has been involved in a wide variety of important programs, many geared toward introducing the younger generation and women to hunting,” said CPW Northwest Regional Manager Ron Velarde. “They are a valuable partner and we look forward to continuing a strong relationship with this important organization. These funds will help them continue the good work they are doing for the state’s wildlife, hunters or anyone that enjoys the outdoors.”
CMDA has also been working with landowners and energy companies on several habitat improvement projects. A healthy habitat is recognized as a primary factor for the survival of wildlife.
The costs of the various programs and projects are enormous. According to CMDA, each mentored, private-land hunt is estimated to cost approximately $3500. Participants are not charged for the opportunity.
“We are very thankful for the grant,” said CMDA Chairman Phil ‘Opie’ Johnson. “Much of what we do involves significant investment, not only in time, but financially as well. These funds will go a long way to help us continue our mission and our important partnership with Colorado Parks and Wildlife.”
Johnson adds that the grant will assist in the purchase of firearms, archery equipment, hunting supplies and storage vehicles that are critical to provide a memorable and beneficial experience for novice, minority and underserved hunters. In addition, ongoing habitat projects will continue to be funded, and future projects will be likely.
Recognizing the importance of strong relationships with like-minded organizations, CPW created Partners in the Outdoors to foster relationships and encourage teamwork with groups and organizations that demonstrate the benefits of outdoor recreation to the public.
For more information about how your group can become a Colorado Parks and Wildlife partner, contact your local Colorado Parks and Wildlife office by visiting www.wildlife.state.co.us/About/OfficesAndPhone/Pages/ContactNumbers.aspx.
- Colorado Division of Forestry
- Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife
- Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety
- Colorado Division of Water Resources
- Colorado Geological Survey
- Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission
- Colorado State Land Board
- Colorado Water Conservation Board
