For over 45 years, the Wild Sheep Foundation (WSF) has been at the forefront of wild sheep conservation, dedicated to restoring and enhancing wild sheep populations across North America. With a passion for wildlife, an adherence to scientific wildlife management, and a commitment to preserving the hunter’s heritage, WSF has transformed the conservation landscape and in doing so, become a rallying point for thousands of passionate members. In this article, we dive into the story of WSF, including its rich history, inspiring leadership, vibrant culture, extensive membership benefits, engaging events, and groundbreaking conservation efforts. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, nature enthusiast, or conservation advocate, read on to discover how the Wild Sheep Foundation is putting and keeping wild sheep on the mountains for future generations.
Company Overview
The Wild Sheep Foundation is a premier nonprofit conservation organization established in 1977 (originally known as the Foundation for North American Wild Sheep) with a clear and ambitious mission—to restore wild sheep populations that once dwindled to historic lows in the 1950s and ’60s. Through the dedicated efforts of its members, chapters, and affiliates, WSF has raised and directed millions of dollars to support programs in wild sheep transplants, telemetry studies, habitat enhancements such as prescribed burning, water development, noxious weed control, and even disease surveillance and predator management.
Headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, WSF boasts over 11,000 active members worldwide as well as a robust network of chapters and affiliates. These local groups bring conservation efforts directly to the rugged landscapes the wild sheep call home, from the Rocky Mountains to the deserts of the Southwest. By channeling private funding and revenue generated through its annual event, popularly known as The Sheep Show®, WSF has become synonymous with the phrase “Putting and Keeping Wild Sheep on the Mountain®.”
WSF’s mission is twofold: not only does it work tirelessly to ensure that wild sheep populations are sustained and expanded, but it also promotes scientific wildlife management and educates the public and youth on the conservation benefits of sustainable hunting. In so doing, the Wild Sheep Foundation upholds the profound connection between ethical hunting and wildlife stewardship.
Company Story & Leadership
The story of the Wild Sheep Foundation begins in the mid-1970s when a small yet passionate group of hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and conservationists recognized that North American wild sheep were facing a crisis. With numbers at historic lows and vast tracts of suitable habitat disappearing, these pioneers were determined to reverse the trend. In 1977, they came together to form what was then known as the Foundation for North American Wild Sheep. Their vision was simple and powerful: to use science-based wildlife management to restore wild sheep populations and ensure that ethical hunters are not at odds with nature, but active stewards could play a critical role in conservation.
Key Milestones
- 1977 – The Beginning:
- The organization was founded in response to alarming declines in wild sheep populations, setting a clear mission to “put and keep wild sheep on the mountain.” This founding mission quickly resonated with the hunting and conservation communities nationwide.
- The organization was founded in response to alarming declines in wild sheep populations, setting a clear mission to “put and keep wild sheep on the mountain.” This founding mission quickly resonated with the hunting and conservation communities nationwide.
- Early 1980s – Laying the Groundwork:
- In its formative years, WSF established rigorous certification standards for wildlife management projects and developed an innovative approach to funding conservation through private donations and revenue from its annual Sheep Show® conventions.
- In its formative years, WSF established rigorous certification standards for wildlife management projects and developed an innovative approach to funding conservation through private donations and revenue from its annual Sheep Show® conventions.
- 1990s – Expanding the Reach:
- As the organization grew in influence, local chapters began to emerge across the western United States and Canada. These chapters empowered regional communities to address local challenges head-on while contributing to the national mission of restoring wild sheep.
- As the organization grew in influence, local chapters began to emerge across the western United States and Canada. These chapters empowered regional communities to address local challenges head-on while contributing to the national mission of restoring wild sheep.
- 2000s to Present – Continued Innovation and Impact:
- Over the past two decades, WSF has refined its strategies by embracing new technologies such as telemetry studies and advanced GIS mapping, enhancing habitat restoration projects, and implementing robust disease surveillance programs. Their efforts have helped more than triple wild sheep numbers in certain regions and have created a legacy of tangible conservation success.
- Over the past two decades, WSF has refined its strategies by embracing new technologies such as telemetry studies and advanced GIS mapping, enhancing habitat restoration projects, and implementing robust disease surveillance programs. Their efforts have helped more than triple wild sheep numbers in certain regions and have created a legacy of tangible conservation success.
Visionary Leadership
At the helm of WSF is a dynamic leadership team comprised of dedicated conservation professionals, experienced hunters, and innovative wildlife biologists. This diverse group has guided the organization through periods of rapid change, ensuring that every conservation project not only meets rigorous scientific criteria but also reflects the values of ethical hunting.
The leadership’s forward-thinking approach has led to strategic partnerships with government agencies, private landowners, and academic institutions, ensuring that WSF remains both a trusted conservator of wild sheep and an influential advocate for sustainable wildlife management. Their commitment reinforces the belief that when hunters lead with passion and scientific insight, the legacy of wild sheep can only grow stronger.
Corporate Culture & Work Environment
The Wild Sheep Foundation thrives on a vibrant and engaging culture that blends the storied traditions of the hunt with the precision of modern conservation science. At WSF, the work environment is as dynamic as the wild landscapes it seeks to protect, energized by passion, collaboration, and a shared commitment to both conservation and the hunting heritage.
- A Passion for the Wild
- Every staff member, volunteer, and member of the Board of Directors shares a deep-seated love for the outdoors. Whether it’s recounting stories of early morning treks through rugged terrain or strategizing over the latest telemetry data, the collective energy at WSF is palpable. This passion not only motivates the team but also translates into tangible conservation outcomes in the field.
- Every staff member, volunteer, and member of the Board of Directors shares a deep-seated love for the outdoors. Whether it’s recounting stories of early morning treks through rugged terrain or strategizing over the latest telemetry data, the collective energy at WSF is palpable. This passion not only motivates the team but also translates into tangible conservation outcomes in the field.
- Grassroots Empowerment
- One of the cornerstones of WSF’s culture is its decentralized approach. With over a hundred local chapters operating autonomously, members have the freedom to tailor conservation efforts that respond specifically to the needs of their area. This grassroots empowerment results in a multitude of localized projects, from targeted predator management to habitat restoration initiatives, each contributing to the broad national mission. It’s this model that gives each member a direct impact on conserving wild sheep on their local “mountains.”
- One of the cornerstones of WSF’s culture is its decentralized approach. With over a hundred local chapters operating autonomously, members have the freedom to tailor conservation efforts that respond specifically to the needs of their area. This grassroots empowerment results in a multitude of localized projects, from targeted predator management to habitat restoration initiatives, each contributing to the broad national mission. It’s this model that gives each member a direct impact on conserving wild sheep on their local “mountains.”
- Tradition Meets Innovation
- WSF successfully marries time-honored hunting traditions with groundbreaking scientific advancements. Experienced hunters, who hold decades of field knowledge, collaborate seamlessly with young wildlife biologists adept at using cutting-edge technology. Regular workshops, field excursions, and panel discussions foster an environment where robust debate and mutual learning are always encouraged. This blend of expertise ensures that conservation strategies remain adaptive, science-backed, and respectful of traditional hunting values.
- WSF successfully marries time-honored hunting traditions with groundbreaking scientific advancements. Experienced hunters, who hold decades of field knowledge, collaborate seamlessly with young wildlife biologists adept at using cutting-edge technology. Regular workshops, field excursions, and panel discussions foster an environment where robust debate and mutual learning are always encouraged. This blend of expertise ensures that conservation strategies remain adaptive, science-backed, and respectful of traditional hunting values.
- Mentorship and Inclusivity
- Mentorship is a natural byproduct of the close-knit culture at WSF. Veteran wild sheep hunters eagerly share their experiences and insights with aspiring hunters, providing invaluable guidance that spans technical skills, ethical practices, and the philosophy behind sustainable wildlife management. Inclusivity is key; WSF welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering an environment where every voice is heard and every perspective enriches the collective mission.
- Mentorship is a natural byproduct of the close-knit culture at WSF. Veteran wild sheep hunters eagerly share their experiences and insights with aspiring hunters, providing invaluable guidance that spans technical skills, ethical practices, and the philosophy behind sustainable wildlife management. Inclusivity is key; WSF welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering an environment where every voice is heard and every perspective enriches the collective mission.
- Fun, Engaging, and Purpose-Driven
- Despite the seriousness of its conservation work, WSF ensures that the journey is always fun. From lively debate at local chapter events to celebratory gatherings after successful field projects, the atmosphere at WSF is one of joyful commitment. Social media channels buzz with captivating wildlife images and hunting anecdotes, keeping the spirit of adventure alive. This dynamic and fun work environment not only drives productivity but also solidifies long-term dedication to the mission.
Check out the Wild Sheep Foundation on YouTube!
Membership Benefits & Programs
Joining the Wild Sheep Foundation is an invitation to participate in a movement that is as rewarding as it is impactful. With a range of membership options catering to hunters, conservationists, and enthusiasts alike, WSF offers an extensive array of benefits designed to enrich your outdoor experiences while directly supporting wild sheep conservation.
Membership Types
WSF offers several membership tiers to align with the needs and commitment levels of its community:
- Regular Annual Membership:
- Priced at approximately $45 per year, this entry-level membership delivers essential benefits, including a subscription to the quarterly WILD SHEEP magazine and access to chapter news, updates, and volunteer opportunities. This is a perfect start for anyone passionate about contributing to wild sheep conservation.
- Priced at approximately $45 per year, this entry-level membership delivers essential benefits, including a subscription to the quarterly WILD SHEEP magazine and access to chapter news, updates, and volunteer opportunities. This is a perfect start for anyone passionate about contributing to wild sheep conservation.
- 3-Year Membership:
- An economical option for committed supporters, a 3-year membership is typically offered for around $120, providing cost savings while granting continuous access to publication updates, event invitations, and record-keeping opportunities that highlight your contributions in the field.
- An economical option for committed supporters, a 3-year membership is typically offered for around $120, providing cost savings while granting continuous access to publication updates, event invitations, and record-keeping opportunities that highlight your contributions in the field.
- Life Membership:
- For those who have been long-time enthusiasts, Life Memberships are available at tiered rates: under age 59 for approximately $1,000, ages 59-64 for $750, and age 65+ for $500. Life Members receive all the benefits of a Regular Membership along with a handsome wooden engraved plaque, a lapel pin, special recognition at the annual Sheep Show® convention, and a voice in shaping key organizational decisions.
- For those who have been long-time enthusiasts, Life Memberships are available at tiered rates: under age 59 for approximately $1,000, ages 59-64 for $750, and age 65+ for $500. Life Members receive all the benefits of a Regular Membership along with a handsome wooden engraved plaque, a lapel pin, special recognition at the annual Sheep Show® convention, and a voice in shaping key organizational decisions.
- Summit Life Membership:
- For the most dedicated supporters willing to take their commitment to new heights, Summit Life Membership is available starting at around $1,500. This elite tier garners special gifts (such as a custom vest with a Summit Life logo), a commemorative plaque, and exclusive invitations to high-level events, making your support unmistakable and eternally cherished.
- For the most dedicated supporters willing to take their commitment to new heights, Summit Life Membership is available starting at around $1,500. This elite tier garners special gifts (such as a custom vest with a Summit Life logo), a commemorative plaque, and exclusive invitations to high-level events, making your support unmistakable and eternally cherished.
- Family and International Memberships:
Discounted family memberships and international membership options ensure that anyone who values wild sheep conservation—whether on the local or global stage—can join the effort.
Exclusive Member Benefits & Programs
When you join WSF, you are not just a subscriber—you become a vital part of a worldwide conservation movement:
- Premium Publications:
- Stay updated with the quarterly WILD SHEEP magazine, brimming with captivating articles, stunning photography, expert interviews, and conservation case studies that keep you informed about the latest in wild sheep management.
- Stay updated with the quarterly WILD SHEEP magazine, brimming with captivating articles, stunning photography, expert interviews, and conservation case studies that keep you informed about the latest in wild sheep management.
- Digital Record Book:
- Gain access to an online record book where your conservation contributions and wild sheep sightings are logged, celebrated, and compared against national benchmarks—a perfect tool to track your progress.
- Gain access to an online record book where your conservation contributions and wild sheep sightings are logged, celebrated, and compared against national benchmarks—a perfect tool to track your progress.
- Local Chapter Engagement:
- Enjoy the benefits of grassroots participation by collaborating with over 100 local chapters. These groups host hands-on events, workshops, and local meetings, ensuring that you are always connected with the community making a difference right in your backyard.
- Enjoy the benefits of grassroots participation by collaborating with over 100 local chapters. These groups host hands-on events, workshops, and local meetings, ensuring that you are always connected with the community making a difference right in your backyard.
- Discounts and Special Offers:
- Benefit from exclusive discounts on WSF-branded apparel, special event tickets, and conservation gear—ensuring that you not only support the cause but also represent it with pride.
- Benefit from exclusive discounts on WSF-branded apparel, special event tickets, and conservation gear—ensuring that you not only support the cause but also represent it with pride.
- Networking and Mentorship:
- Participate in annual conferences, regional meetings, and specialized workshops that provide invaluable opportunities to learn from and network with seasoned hunters, researchers, and advocates.
- Participate in annual conferences, regional meetings, and specialized workshops that provide invaluable opportunities to learn from and network with seasoned hunters, researchers, and advocates.
- Conservation Funding:
- A portion of all membership fees directly funds landmark conservation projects—from habitat restoration and wild sheep transplants to advanced research initiatives—ensuring that your membership makes a measurable impact on preserving wild sheep populations for decades to come.
- A portion of all membership fees directly funds landmark conservation projects—from habitat restoration and wild sheep transplants to advanced research initiatives—ensuring that your membership makes a measurable impact on preserving wild sheep populations for decades to come.
Through these benefits and programs, WSF empowers its members to turn passion into action, fostering a direct link between your enthusiasm for the outdoors and tangible, life-changing conservation outcomes.
Unique Events & Gatherings
The Wild Sheep Foundation’s commitment to conservation is celebrated through a vibrant series of events and gatherings that bring the community together in excitement, education, and shared purpose.
The Annual Sheep Show® Convention
One of the most anticipated annual events is The Sheep Show®—a multi-day convention that unites thousands of members for a celebration of wild sheep conservation and hunting heritage. Key features of this event include:
- Awards Banquets:
- Recognizing record-setting hunts, innovative conservation projects, and notable contributions, the awards banquet is a night to remember. Members are honored for their achievements with custom plaques, trophies, and public accolades.
- Recognizing record-setting hunts, innovative conservation projects, and notable contributions, the awards banquet is a night to remember. Members are honored for their achievements with custom plaques, trophies, and public accolades.
- Educational Workshops & Seminars:
- Leading wildlife biologists, experienced hunters, and industry experts present hands-on training sessions and interactive panels. Learn cutting-edge techniques in wildlife management, innovative strategies for habitat restoration, and new trends in ethical hunting.
- Leading wildlife biologists, experienced hunters, and industry experts present hands-on training sessions and interactive panels. Learn cutting-edge techniques in wildlife management, innovative strategies for habitat restoration, and new trends in ethical hunting.
- Exhibit Halls & Vendor Showcases:
- Discover the latest in hunting gear, technology, and conservation-related products from top brands. These showcases provide an opportunity to interact with industry pioneers and explore products that can enhance your outdoor adventures.
- Discover the latest in hunting gear, technology, and conservation-related products from top brands. These showcases provide an opportunity to interact with industry pioneers and explore products that can enhance your outdoor adventures.
- Networking Opportunities:
- Engage face-to-face with fellow hunters, mentors, and conservationists, fostering relationships that often turn into lifelong collaborations and friendships.
- Engage face-to-face with fellow hunters, mentors, and conservationists, fostering relationships that often turn into lifelong collaborations and friendships.
Regional and Local Chapter Meetings
WSF’s extensive chapter network hosts regional meetings and local gatherings throughout the year, providing opportunities for direct community engagement:
- Hands-On Conservation Projects:
- Participate in habitat restoration events, wild sheep transplant projects, and field days where you can see firsthand how your volunteer efforts are making a difference.
- Participate in habitat restoration events, wild sheep transplant projects, and field days where you can see firsthand how your volunteer efforts are making a difference.
- Social Gatherings:
- Enjoy informal meetups, barbecues, and field trips that allow members to exchange stories, share tips, and experience the camaraderie that defines the WSF spirit.
- Enjoy informal meetups, barbecues, and field trips that allow members to exchange stories, share tips, and experience the camaraderie that defines the WSF spirit.
- Photo Contests and Local Awards:
- From wildlife photography competitions to local “Sheep Ranger” awards, these events highlight the fun and competitive side of wild sheep conservation.
- From wildlife photography competitions to local “Sheep Ranger” awards, these events highlight the fun and competitive side of wild sheep conservation.
Digital Conferences & Virtual Events
For those who cannot participate in person, WSF offers interactive digital conferences, webinars, and online discussion forums. These virtual events enable members from across the globe to engage in live educational sessions, participate in Q&A panels with experts, and network with peers—all from the comfort of their home.
Every gathering, whether on the field or online, is a chance to celebrate the spirit of wild sheep conservation, exchange practical insights, and reinforce a sense of shared legacy and purpose among members.
Conservation Efforts
Wild Sheep Foundation’s efforts in conservation form the backbone of its mission. With a robust focus on science, education, and community involvement, WSF has achieved remarkable success in restoring wild sheep populations and preserving their critical habitats.
- Science-Based Wildlife Management
- WSF adheres to a rigorous, data-driven approach. Through field research, telemetry studies, and highly detailed habitat assessments, WSF ensures that every conservation project is underpinned by solid scientific methodology. This approach has contributed to substantial improvements in wild sheep populations and has provided the foundation for legislative advocacy.
- WSF adheres to a rigorous, data-driven approach. Through field research, telemetry studies, and highly detailed habitat assessments, WSF ensures that every conservation project is underpinned by solid scientific methodology. This approach has contributed to substantial improvements in wild sheep populations and has provided the foundation for legislative advocacy.
Habitat Enhancement & Restoration
One of WSF’s most successful conservation initiatives involves restoring and enhancing wild sheep habitat. By partnering with state, provincial, tribal, and private landowners, WSF has:
- Restored Millions of Acres:
- Through grants, preservation easements, and targeted field projects, significant tracts of historically productive wild sheep habitat have been revived.
- Through grants, preservation easements, and targeted field projects, significant tracts of historically productive wild sheep habitat have been revived.
- Implemented Innovative Projects:
- Initiatives include the installation of water catchment projects, prescribed burning, and the reclamation of degraded lands—interventions that have significantly increased the availability of quality habitat.
- Initiatives include the installation of water catchment projects, prescribed burning, and the reclamation of degraded lands—interventions that have significantly increased the availability of quality habitat.
- Managed Predator and Disease Concerns:
- WSF also supports research and management protocols designed to balance predator-prey dynamics and mitigate diseases that can threaten wild sheep populations.
- WSF also supports research and management protocols designed to balance predator-prey dynamics and mitigate diseases that can threaten wild sheep populations.
Legislative and Community Advocacy
Beyond on-the-ground projects, WSF is a powerful advocate for policies that support wild sheep conservation:
- Defending Public Access:
- WSF’s advocacy team works with lawmakers to ensure that borders remain open and that policies continue to support the rights of ethical hunters.
- WSF’s advocacy team works with lawmakers to ensure that borders remain open and that policies continue to support the rights of ethical hunters.
- Influencing Wildlife Management:
- By partnering with governmental agencies and research institutions, WSF helps shape policies that promote sustainable wildlife management and ensure that both wildlife and the hunters who respect them flourish.
- By partnering with governmental agencies and research institutions, WSF helps shape policies that promote sustainable wildlife management and ensure that both wildlife and the hunters who respect them flourish.
- Volunteer-Driven Impact:
- With thousands of dedicated volunteers contributing countless hours to conservation projects, WSF’s efforts are bolstered by grassroots support that turns funding into real-world impact.
- With thousands of dedicated volunteers contributing countless hours to conservation projects, WSF’s efforts are bolstered by grassroots support that turns funding into real-world impact.
Through these multifaceted conservation strategies, Wild Sheep Foundation is not only restoring wild sheep populations but also building a legacy of science-based sustainable wildlife management and ethical hunting practices.
Contact Information
Wild Sheep Foundation welcomes inquiries from prospective members, partners, and supporters who share its passion for wild sheep conservation. Connect with WSF using the following details:
- Website:
- Mailing Address:
- Wild Sheep Foundation 412 Pronghorn Trail Bozeman, MT 59718, USA
- Wild Sheep Foundation 412 Pronghorn Trail Bozeman, MT 59718, USA
- Phone:
- Reach out to WSF at (406) 404-8750
- Reach out to WSF at (406) 404-8750
- Email:
- For general inquiries, email info@wildsheepfoundation.org or use the contact form on the website.
- For general inquiries, email info@wildsheepfoundation.org or use the contact form on the website.
- Social Media:
- Follow WSF on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube for real-time conservation updates, event news, and inspiring stories from the field.
- Follow WSF on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube for real-time conservation updates, event news, and inspiring stories from the field.
- Local Chapters:
- Use the website’s chapter locator to find a local chapter near you—engage directly with community-driven conservation initiatives that are making a difference on the ground.
Call to Action
Imagine a future where wild sheep roam free across vast, rugged landscapes; where every encounter with these majestic creatures is a testament to decades of dedicated conservation efforts; and where ethical hunters actively safeguard our natural heritage. The Wild Sheep Foundation is making that future a reality—one conservation project, one volunteer hour, and one proud member at a time.
Join the Wild Sheep Foundation Today!
- Become a Conservation Champion:
- Your membership contributes directly to groundbreaking projects in habitat restoration, scientific research, and legislative advocacy—ensuring that wild sheep populations continue to thrive.
- Your membership contributes directly to groundbreaking projects in habitat restoration, scientific research, and legislative advocacy—ensuring that wild sheep populations continue to thrive.
- Connect with a Passionate Community:
- Join thousands of like-minded hunters and wildlife enthusiasts who share your love for the mountains and your commitment to sustainable wildlife management. Attend local chapter events, engage in hands-on conservation projects, and exchange valuable tips and success stories.
- Join thousands of like-minded hunters and wildlife enthusiasts who share your love for the mountains and your commitment to sustainable wildlife management. Attend local chapter events, engage in hands-on conservation projects, and exchange valuable tips and success stories.
- Enjoy Exclusive Benefits:
- From premium publications and unlimited access to digital record books to exclusive discounts and invitations to signature events like The Sheep Show®, your membership enhances every aspect of your hunting and conservation experience.
- From premium publications and unlimited access to digital record books to exclusive discounts and invitations to signature events like The Sheep Show®, your membership enhances every aspect of your hunting and conservation experience.
- Make a Tangible Impact:
- Every dollar of your support helps secure millions of acres of wild habitat and funds initiatives that make a real difference. Your investment today builds a legacy for future generations—ensuring that wild sheep continue to grace our mountains.
- Every dollar of your support helps secure millions of acres of wild habitat and funds initiatives that make a real difference. Your investment today builds a legacy for future generations—ensuring that wild sheep continue to grace our mountains.
If you’re ready to take an active role in preserving one of North America’s iconic species—as well as the hunting traditions that celebrate them—now is the time to join the movement. Embrace the challenge, support sustainable use, and help put and keep wild sheep on the mountain.
Last updated November 2025
Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. It may include personal opinions, user-generated input, or material created with the assistance of AI tools, and is not intended as professional advice of any kind. Tier 1 Sportsmen does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided. Always verify any hunting, safety, gear, or health-related information with qualified experts, and check all local laws and regulations before participating in any hunting activity. This site may contain copyrighted material, the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We believe that this constitutes a ‘fair use’ of the material in accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107. For full details, please review our Disclaimer.