Friends of Makoshika awarded $9,852 by Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation to support youth archery program

Eastern Plains Economic Development Corporation (EPEDC) recently announced a community grant award. By collaborating closely with Makoshika State Park, Friends of Makoshika, and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF), EPEDC successfully facilitated a grant from RMEF to support Makoshika State Park’s youth archery program. The Friends of Makoshika, in partnership with Makoshika State Park, have been awarded a generous $9,852 grant from RMEF. This crucial funding will be used to purchase essential equipment, including targets, target stands, bows, and bow cases, to strengthen the Park's dedication to the local youth archery program.

The youth archery program aims to introduce and cultivate archery skills among students in grades 4-12. The project is dedicated to expanding its reach from Glendive to the surrounding areas, providing more young people with the opportunity to engage in this rewarding sport.

In 2022, Park staff became certified with the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP), allowing them to assist public schools with archery in their physical education (PE) programs. This certification has enabled Makoshika State Park to take a leadership role in promoting archery as a safe and accessible activity for youth across the region.

The awarded funds will be utilized to enhance the safety and effectiveness of the program through the purchase of new archery equipment. Friends of Makoshika continues to seek funding to acquire a new equipment trailer. The purchase of a new trailer will allow the NASP-certified instructors to transport the necessary equipment and provide support to PE programs in surrounding communities.

The Friends of Makoshika and Makoshika State Park extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation for their unwavering support of this initiative. This funding will play a pivotal role in ensuring that youth in Glendive, Wibaux, Terry, and beyond have access to high-quality archery training, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the sport and the great outdoors.

For more information about the youth archery program or how to get involved, please contact Riley Bell, Makoshika State Park at 406-377-6256.

About Eastern Plains Economic Development Corporation (EPEDC)

EPEDC is dedicated to fostering economic growth and development in the Eastern Plains region of Montana. Serving Carter, Dawson, Fallon, Prairie and Wibaux Counties in Southeastern Montana. Through collaboration with local businesses, government entities, and community organizations, EPEDC aims to create a prosperous and sustainable economic environment for all residents.

For more information about EPEDC and our work in our communities please visit http://www.epedc.com

About Friends of Makoshika

The Friends of Makoshika is a dedicated volunteer group committed to supporting and enhancing the educational, recreational, and conservation initiatives of Makoshika State Park. Through fundraising, community engagement, and partnership-building, the organization works to ensure the long-term preservation and enjoyment of the Park for all visitors.

About Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring the future of elk, other wildlife, their habitat, and our hunting heritage. Through their grant programs, they support a wide range of conservation, education, and outdoor-related projects across the United States.