WSTR News

Ariat WSTR Welcomes Mule Deer Foundation

The roping world is full of outdoor sports enthusiasts who understand the importance of wildlife conservation and who also look forward to harvesting wild game each season. In a vast majority of ropers, we see the parallels in passion between the roping arena and the thrill of the hunt.

Beginning in July of 2022, the Ariat World Series of Team Roping is partnering with the Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) to increase awareness and help conserve the habitats of mule deer and black-tailed deer. 

"The Mule Deer Foundation is proud to be the Official Wildlife Conservation Sponsor of the WSTR," said John T. Gebhart – Regional Director for MDF in Arizona and Southern Nevada. "We love to rope and we love to hunt. Our mission is to ensure the conservation of mule deer, black-tailed deer and their habitat. MDF is a lot like the World Series of Team Roping in that we want to preserve the outdoor way of life for future generations."

MDF is committed to sharing its passion for the outdoors with the knowledge that today's investment will ensure the future of mule deer and black-tailed deer herds. Whether it is a day on the range shooting targets, a frosty morning atop a remote mountain, or a shared sunset over the sage steppe, our community is entrusted with the responsibility to manage our natural resources and introduce new people to our world.

Each year the Mule Deer Foundation holds events through its chapters generating funding for its important work to improve habitat for mule deer, share our passion for hunting and conservation, and engage in public policy to influence wildlife management at the State and Federal level.

"MDF's habitat work has increased dramatically over the past five years with millions of dollars hitting the ground for habitat projects. By focusing on projects in areas that are important migration corridors or seasonal ranges, prioritizing pre- and post-fire restoration, and improving water availability, we are making a difference for mule deer, black-tailed deer, and hundreds of other species that share the western landscapes we love so much," said MDF President/CEO Joel Pedersen.

To learn more about the Mule Deer Foundation, find an event, or to become a member of this great organization, visit www.MuleDeer.org or contact John T. Gebhart at 520.431.0760 or by email at jtgebhart@muledeer.org.