Podcast Summary: Ep. 159 | Elk Conservation on Live Wild with Remi Warren

Introduction In Episode 159 of Live Wild with Remi Warren, host Remi Warren delves into the critical topic of elk conservation. Joined by Kyle Weaver, President of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF), the episode explores the multifaceted efforts in wildlife habitat protection, public land access, and the various threats facing both hunters and elk populations today.

Conservation Efforts and Habitat Protection Remi opens the discussion by highlighting the significant strides made by the RMEF in conserving elk habitats. Over the past 40 years, the foundation has safeguarded nearly 9 million acres to enhance elk populations. Remi emphasizes, “Without habitat, without a place for these elk to live in, we don't have that elk hunting” (02:10).

Kyle Weaver elaborates on this achievement, noting the rapid expansion from 8 to 9 million acres in less than two years, compared to the gradual increase over four decades. He states, “The acceleration from million to million to million acres... in a quick cycle. So good place to be, right?” (03:35). This expansion not only preserves elk populations but also contributes to broader biodiversity, benefiting various species from insects to birds.

Public Land Access and Its Challenges The conversation shifts to the importance of public land access for hunters. Remi points out that many conservation projects are specifically designed to improve hunter access, a facet often overlooked by the general public. Kyle agrees, highlighting the complexity of balancing habitat conservation with public access needs. He explains, “Access became like a really big buzzword in our industry... It's really about impact. And you can take a very small piece of property in the right place and make a much bigger footprint of impact” (04:27).

Scientific Management and Best Practices A significant portion of the discussion centers on the role of science in managing elk populations. Kyle emphasizes the RMEF’s commitment to research-based strategies, stating, “We're very research and science based... And hunting is probably the number one tool in that balance” (08:54). This approach ensures that elk management remains unbiased and effective, adapting to new findings and ecological shifts.

Unity Among Hunters and Advocacy Remi and Kyle both stress the importance of unity within the hunting community to protect conservation efforts. Kyle notes, “Hunters are, I think, less than 5% of the population now... the resources are being pressed” (11:03). They discuss how differing interests within the community, such as bow hunters versus rifle hunters or private versus public land hunters, can be reconciled through a shared commitment to science-based conservation.

Impact of Hunting on Conservation The dialogue highlights how hunting directly supports conservation initiatives. Remi shares personal anecdotes about successful hunts, underscoring that each hunt contributes to habitat preservation and population management. Kyle adds, “Hunting is the number one tool in that balance, not only from a management standpoint, but from a financial standpoint, to fund all this” (09:32).

Engaging New Hunters and Educational Programs Both hosts emphasize the necessity of mentoring and educating new hunters to sustain conservation efforts. Remi discusses his approach to guiding new hunters, ensuring they appreciate the complexity and responsibility that comes with hunting. Kyle introduces programs like the University of Montana's Wild Sustenance class, aimed at educating individuals with no prior hunting experience—from firearm safety to meat processing (51:30).

Personal Stories and Successes Throughout the episode, Remi and Kyle share personal stories that illustrate the tangible benefits of conservation work. Remi recounts his wife’s successful elk hunt, attributing it to the foundation’s habitat conservation efforts. Kyle shares success stories from RMEF projects, such as the Elk Mountain access project in Idaho, which transformed a small 23-acre plot into a gateway for accessing 13,000 acres of habitat (28:08).

Advocacy and Overcoming Challenges The episode also addresses the challenges posed by political initiatives and misconceptions about hunting. Kyle describes how emotional arguments against hunting can undermine scientific management, using Colorado’s mountain lion management as a case study. He emphasizes the need for hunters to advocate for science-based policies, stating, “This ballot box biology is dangerous” (55:40).

Conclusion and Call to Action As the episode concludes, Remi and Kyle reiterate the essential role hunters play in conservation. Remi encourages listeners to join the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation to support ongoing conservation efforts, while also highlighting the foundation’s Bugle magazine as a valuable resource for hunting tips and conservation stories.

Kyle wraps up by promoting his annual 12 Days of Christmas giveaway, offering listeners a chance to win over $20,000 worth of hunting gear and accessories through participation on their website (63:34).

Notable Quotes

• Remi Warren: “Without habitat, without a place for these elk to live in, we don't have that elk hunting.” (02:10)
• Kyle Weaver: “Access became like a really big buzzword in our industry... It's really about impact.” (04:27)
• Remi Warren: “I am an elk hunter, and if there are no elk, I'm no longer an elk hunter.” (41:09)
• Kyle Weaver: “This ballot box biology is dangerous.” (55:40)

Final Thoughts Episode 159 of Live Wild with Remi Warren provides an in-depth exploration of elk conservation, highlighting the intricate balance between habitat protection, hunter access, and scientific management. Through insightful dialogue and personal anecdotes, Remi and Kyle underscore the indispensable role of hunters in preserving wildlife and ensuring sustainable hunting practices for future generations.