CONSERVATION EFFORTS
YWSF is committed to putting conservation dollars to work! Here are a few conservation efforts we are focusing on in 2018, and moving forward.
Wild & Domestic Sheep Contact
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​Mycoplasma Ovipneumoniae
Commonly referred to as M-Ovi, this bacteria is responsible for large die-offs in Bighorn sheep populations across North America dating back to the early 1900’s. It is spread when infected domestic sheep, goats, and potentially llamas come in contact with wild sheep. The risk here in the territory to our native wild sheep populations is enormous due mostly to a lack of awareness and testing, as well as farming practices that may put Yukon's wild sheep at risk. The Yukon Wild Sheep Foundation supports periodic testing for all domestic herds, in an effort to create a M-Ovi free Yukon.
Education
Our Chair of Education, Andrew Craigen, is currently partnering with the YG Hunting Education Coordinator in addition to other wildlife specialists in presenting science-based educational programs on wild sheep, their habitat, age structure, health, and population dynamics. The program material has a strong focus on conservation, proactive approaches to sheep management, and why they are essential. As well his interactive presentations also give practical applications for all ages of sheep hunting enthusiast. These includes ageing rams, tips & techniques, preparation and proper gear use. We believe education and awareness are often undervalued tools of instilling sound conservation ethics, especially in younger generations, who are the future of wild sheep in Yukon.
Get Involved
We are actively working out the viability, logistics, and politics involved with several boots on the ground projects. If you have a great idea, or want to know how you can get involved, please contact us! We are a volunteer-driven organization and our full potential can only be reached through your participation and contributions.