March 13, 2014
Rodger Fleming Recognized with RMEF’s Highest Honor
MISSOULA, Mont.—The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation presented its highest honor posthumously to long-time volunteer, board member, avid hunter and conservationist Rodger Fleming.
The Wallace Fennell Pate Wildlife Conservation Award honors contributions of lasting significance that benefit elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage across North America.
“Rodger’s example and actions embody what this award is all about,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “His life was truly one of passion, dedication and service. We miss him. We honor him. And we thank him.”
Fittingly, RMEF presented the award to Fleming’s family at the recent 3 Rivers Chapter banquet in Pittsburgh. Fleming was a driving force in organizing the Pittsburgh chapter. He served as a volunteer for 25 years and helped the chapter become the first in the nation to raise a cumulative $3 million for elk country. Fleming was also a Pennsylvania state chair, the first such state chair in the eastern United States. Also an RMEF life member and Habitat Partner, he took part in successful stints on the RMEF Board of Directors, the RMEF Canadian board and as an RMEF past board representative.
“The legacy he leaves behind for the rest of us to follow exemplifies the true meaning of volunteerism and conservation,” added Allen.
Wallace Fennell Pate, RMEF’s first president and chairman of the board, dedicated his time, energy and financial resources for the betterment of wildlife in North America. Now deceased, Pate became a national role model for groups or individuals concerned with the conservation of natural resources.