Rodger Fleming Recognized with RMEF’s Highest Honor

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation presented its highest honor posthumously to long-time volunteer, board member, avid hunter and conservationist Rodger Fleming.

The Wallace Fennell Pate Wildlife Conservation Award honors contributions of lasting significance that benefit elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage across North America.

“Rodger’s example and actions embody what this award is all about,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “His life was truly one of passion, dedication and service. We miss him. We honor him. And we thank him.”

Fittingly, RMEF presented the award to Fleming’s family at the recent 3 Rivers Chapter banquet in Pittsburgh. Fleming was a driving force in organizing the Pittsburgh chapter. He served as a volunteer for 25 years and helped the chapter become the first in the nation to raise a cumulative $3 million for elk country. Fleming was also a Pennsylvania state chair, the first such state chair in the eastern United States. Also an RMEF life member and Habitat Partner, he took part in successful stints on the RMEF Board of Directors, the RMEF Canadian board and as an RMEF past board representative.

“The legacy he leaves behind for the rest of us to follow exemplifies the true meaning of volunteerism and conservation,” added Allen.

Wallace Fennell Pate, RMEF’s first president and chairman of the board, dedicated his time, energy and financial resources for the betterment of wildlife in North America. Now deceased, Pate became a national role model for groups or individuals concerned with the conservation of natural resources.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

The mission of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is to ensure the future of elk, other wildlife and their habitat. In support of this mission the Elk Foundation is committed to: Conserving, restoring and enhancing natural habitats; Promoting the sound management of wild, free-ranging elk, which may be hunted or otherwise enjoyed; Fostering cooperation among federal, state, tribal and private organizations and individuals in wildlife management and habitat conservation; and Educating members and the public about habitat conservation, the value of hunting, hunting ethics and wildlife management.