MISSOULA, Mont . — The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation presented public lands hunter and longtime RMEF advocate Randy Newberg with the Wallace Fennell Pate Award, its highest conservation honor.
“If you would have told me that I would ever be standing here, I would have never dreamed it,” said an emotional Newberg, after accepting the award at RMEF’s 40th anniversary celebration in Missoula, Montana. “I can’t think of an organization that has made a difference in my life, and my family and the things that mean the most to me in the America that I want to see than all of you that make up the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.”
Newberg is a life member who joined RMEF in 1991. He also served six years as a board member, emceed many local banquets and national RMEF events, and continually champions hunting and conservation. His contributions generated significant member recruitment and funding to further RMEF’s mission work.
“It is difficult to quantify what Randy means to us. He’s a voice of reason, a friend and an advocate for elk, other wildlife, public lands and public access. And even though he’s one of RMEF’s biggest allies, he serves the hunting community as a whole,” said RMEF President & CEO Kyle Weaver.
Newberg founded the public lands hunting TV shows “On Your Own Adventures” and “Fresh Tracks.” He also hosts the Hunt Talk and Elk Talk podcasts, a popular YouTube presence and offers his elk hunting expertise via OutdoorClass.
“Randy is the ultimate example of an RMEF volunteer and is most deserving of this conservation honor. He gives of his time and talents and is a staunch proponent of our mission. For all his energy and efforts, we say, ‘Thank you,’” said Fred Lekse, RMEF Board of Directors chair.
Pate served RMEF in the organization’s early days supplying vital support, founding key programs and serving as its first president and board of directors’ chair.
About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
Founded in 1984 and fueled by hunters, RMEF has conserved more than 8.9 million acres for elk and other wildlife. RMEF also works to open and improve public access, fund and advocate for science-based resource management, and ensure the future of America’s hunting heritage. Discover why “Hunting Is Conservation™” atrmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.
