info@wyldlifefortomorrow.org
The WYldlife Fund
Fund critical habitat conservation projects, research, and education.
Our Vision
Wyoming’s Wildlife is as diverse as the people who come to see it.
Wyoming’s wildlife is iconic, abundant, and deeply woven into the identity of this place. From grizzlies and elk to native fish and migratory birds, these wild species fuel a billion-dollar outdoor economy—and inspire millions who come to see them. But while the tourism and recreation industries benefit from wildlife, they’ve never had a clear way to give back. Wyldlife For Tomorrow exists to change that—inviting businesses to become conservation investors, funding real, on-the-ground projects that ensure Wyoming’s wild legacy endures.
omings Precious Resources
Wyoming’s Priceless Wildlife Resources
The rolling sagebrush flats, winding rivers, aspen and conifer forests, and rugged mountains of Wyoming have long provided critical habitat for hundreds of wildlife species both large and small.
The longest pronghorn antelope and mule deer migrations in the world cross the state, wild bison roam in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, and our elk have repopulated herds across the country. Grizzlies, wolves, mountain lions, and other predators thrive in this wild country.
Residents and visitors alike enjoy spotting elk, antelope, moose, deer, sage grouse, eagles, and other animals, often daily.
Funding Wildlife Conservation
Wildlife conservation in Wyoming is primarily funded through the sale of hunting and fishing licenses, federal aid from the Pittman Robertson (PR) and Dingell Johnson (DJ) excise taxes on hunting and fishing equipment, and a few other small sources.
Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) receives no property tax payment from the state of Wyoming or contributions from other recreational users.
Wyoming’s Wildlife Support a Billion Dollar Economy. Shouldn’t We Give Back?
A 2017 economic analysis of the Wyoming wildlife recreation economy found that hunting, fishing, and wildlife watching in Wyoming generates more than a billion dollars in economic activity for the state each year. Wildlife watching alone brings in half a billion dollars and employs more than 5,000 people in the state.
A 2020 analysis of national park visitors puts the value even higher: 11,300 thousand jobs and $1 billion in economic output in the Wyoming economy.
The wildlife tourism industry receives the benefits of Wyoming’s wildlife but contributes little to the conservation of this critical resource. WYldlife for Tomorrow aims to change this with a new funding mechanism that allows the businesses that depend on wildlife to contribute to a sustainable future for the animals and ourselves through a tax-deductible gift via our partner, The WYldlife Fund.
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Years of experience
Our Story: Bridging Conservation and Tourism for Wyoming's Wildlife
Wyoming’s wildlife doesn’t recognize property lines. From the towering Tetons to the vast sagebrush seas, animals roam freely across public and private lands, moving through migration corridors and critical seasonal ranges. Locals and visitors alike are captivated by these creatures. But admiration alone isn’t enough, so how do we inspire deeper commitment to conservation?
That question led wildlife guide Taylor Phillips, to seek solutions. In 2021, with the support of Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon and Wyoming Game and Fish Director Brian Nesvik, Taylor partnered with Chris McBarnes, president of The WYldlife Fund, to launch WYldlife for Tomorrow, a conservation initiative that brings the power of Wyoming’s $4.5 billion travel and tourism economy into the fight to secure a future for wildlife.
What began as a program under The WYldlife Fund has since grown into an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, backed by a committed board of directors and united around a single purpose: mobilize the tourism industry to support on-the-ground conservation across Wyoming.
A Tourism Industry that Gives Back
Tourism is now Wyoming’s second-largest industry, and much of it is powered by wildlife. From elk to moose to grizzly bears, these animals drive millions of dollars in economic activity. Taylor saw firsthand how visitors from around the globe come to Wyoming for a chance to experience this wild beauty, and how much more the industry could do to help protect it.
WYldlife for Tomorrow believes those who benefit from wildlife, whether guides, outfitters, hotels, or restaurants, can also become its strongest supporters. The organization serves as a bridge between conservation nonprofits, state agencies, and the tourism economy, ensuring that private dollars flow directly into high-impact, science-based conservation.
United by Wildlife
WYldlife for Tomorrow also honors the hunting and angling communities whose contributions to conservation through license fees and excise taxes have built the North American model of wildlife management. These traditional stewards of the land remain essential allies in modern conservation, and WYldlife for Tomorrow celebrates their leadership and support.
Operating as its own independent nonprofit, WYldlife for Tomorrow continues to grow, driven by passionate advocates, smart partnerships, and a belief that Wyoming’s wildlife is not just a natural treasure, but a shared responsibility.
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…visitors flock to Wyoming to witness wildlife in its natural spaces. As Wyoming’s second-largest industry, tourism relies heavily on wildlife experiences… [WYldlife for Tomorrow] is such a crucial initiative for generating resources and organizing programs that will conserve Wyoming’s wildlife."