HUNTING -- Sportsmen recently bid $50,000 to $200,000 for elk hunting packages offered by seven states to raise money for wildlife habitat conservation.

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation raised a total of $655,000 for fish and wildlife agencies in Arizona, Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Washington. The states offered a total of seven elk tags and one big-game enhancement package for the recent Hunter's Rendezvous Auction held in Tucson.

Washington's any-bull tag for Eastern Washington fetched $50,000.  Idaho did not offer a tag.

“One hundred percent of the funds raised from the auction of these special big game state permits go back to the individual states,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “These permits are a public trust and returning all of the proceeds they generate at this national event to the states for the benefit of wildlife and conservation is just the right thing to do.”

The money supports on-the-ground conservation projects that benefit habitat for elk, deer and other wildlife, and assists state agencies dealing with budgetary challenges, he said.

These limited tags are very rare and deemed “special” because they often feature extended seasons that may cover an entire state with some exceptions. State agencies provide the remainder of their tags through general application, a draw system, and over-the-counter opportunities ensuring that the everyday hunter has the opportunity to hunt.

“The revenue generated from only one tag can make a substantial difference for all our wildlife and also for improving hunting opportunity,” Allen said.

State special permits auctioned by RMEF include:
• Arizona Special Elk Tag, $140,000
• Colorado Special Elk Permit, $34,000
• Montana Special Elk Permit, $28,500
• Nevada Heritage Rocky Mountain Elk Tag, $100,000
• New Mexico Enhancement Package, $200,000
• New Mexico Special Elk License, $50,000
• Pennsylvania Elk Permit, $52,500
• Washington East Side Elk Permit, $50,000