Mule Deer Foundation (MDF

Miscellaneous

The Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) is a wildlife conservation organization dedicated to the restoration, conservation, and management of mule deer and black-tailed deer populations across the western United States. Founded in 1988, MDF works to ensure the long-term sustainability of these iconic species through habitat restoration, research, and advocacy. The foundation focuses heavily on improving critical winter range, migration corridors, and sagebrush ecosystems, which are vital to mule deer survival. MDF collaborates closely with federal and state wildlife agencies, private landowners, and other conservation partners to implement large-scale habitat projects that benefit not only deer but a wide array of native wildlife. The organization also engages in wildfire recovery efforts, invasive species removal, and water development in arid regions. Public policy and hunting heritage are key parts of MDF’s mission, and the foundation actively supports science-based wildlife management and responsible hunting. Through its chapter network, MDF hosts banquets and fundraising events to support on-the-ground conservation work and youth outreach. The organization runs programs like “M.U.L.E.Y.” to educate and involve young people in outdoor traditions and wildlife stewardship. With a strong presence in western states such as Utah, Nevada, Colorado, and Arizona, MDF plays a crucial role in protecting landscapes threatened by development, drought, and climate change. Its advocacy for seasonal migration corridors has influenced policy at both the state and national levels. Mule deer are a keystone species in western ecosystems, and their health reflects the condition of the broader landscape. The Mule Deer Foundation serves as a guardian of these habitats and a trusted voice for hunters and conservationists committed to preserving the future of western wildlife.