Established in 1977 as the Foundation for North American Wild Sheep (FNAWS), the Wild Sheep Foundation (WSF) is a premier conservation organization devoted to the revival of wild sheep populations that faced severe decline in North America during the 1950s and ’60s. Through private funding sourced from its members and revenue generated by its annual “The Sheep Show®” convention, WSF and its Chapters and Affiliates actively finance endeavors across North America and beyond to fulfill its mission. WSF’s overarching objective is to ensure efficient management, accessibility, utilization, and backing of wild sheep populations and their habitats globally. Over its four-decade journey, WSF has garnered more than $115 million, with over $49 million directed to agencies via special permits and tags, supporting initiatives such as transplants, habitat enhancements, research, education, and predator management. This steadfast commitment has been instrumental in tripling the population of Rocky Mountain, California, and desert sheep from approximately 25,000 in the 1950s to over 85,000 today. Yet, the ongoing success and protection of these species depend on the continuous dedication of WSF’s 10,000 members worldwide and their collective contributions of time, effort, and resources.
