d i s t i n c t ly m o n ta n a • fa l l 2 0 1 4
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Cunningham says that perhaps the biggest success in Bighorn
conservation is the increase of public awareness. Because of recent
research done by the Bighorn Sheep Consortium and multiple
other research groups, Montanans are now having important
conversations that raise awareness about how to responsibly and
sustainably recover and reintroduce Bighorn. Still, Carlsen notes
that one of the biggest ongoing challenges for agencies is public
education. The Wild Sheep Foundation and Bear Trust Interna-
tional worked together to implement an educational program in
a number of schools in Missoula and across Montana, but more
needs to be done.
The issue comes down to funding. Wildlife research and conser-
vation simply do not get the funding necessary to further research
and restoration efforts. As Carlsen points out, "If money was not
an issue, something could be done." Nonprofits such as The Wild
Sheep Foundation depend on our donations to advance conserva-
tion efforts.
For more information, look them up on Facebook or their Web
site at www.wildsheepfoundation.org. The Bighorn Sheep Disease
Research Consortium also has information about ongoing research
and events at www.Bighornhealth.org/index.php/.
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