Wyoming Disabled Hunters
For many hunters, the opportunity to pursue big game in Wyoming represents more than filling a tag. It’s a chance to experience the open country and reconnect with a tradition that can become difficult to pursue following a life-changing injury or disability.
That is where Wyoming Disabled Hunters (WDH) makes a difference. Based in Cody, Wyoming, WDH is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created by Wyoming residents with a personal connection to physically challenged hunters. Its mission is straightforward: Provide affordable hunting opportunities for disabled hunters.
Making a Wyoming Hunt Possible
Since 2009, WDH reports that it has provided hunting opportunities to 373 hunters, with a 91% success rate. Veterans have made up approximately 31% of the hunters served, according to the organization’s published statistics.
The organization offers opportunities to hunt three of Wyoming’s iconic big-game species (antelope, deer and elk). The hunts are designed around the individual hunter’s abilities, with adaptive equipment available to meet specific needs. WDH provides companion hunters and volunteers who serve as guides. For someone who may no longer be able to navigate rough terrain, carry equipment, or safely position themselves for a shot, those accommodations can be the difference between simply remembering what hunting used to be like and actually getting back into the field.
We had a chance to ask Bryce Fauskee about the Organizations Impact
How did the idea for Wyoming disabled hunters come about?
“Back in 2006-2007, I was working part-time. A friend of mine named Merlyn Ballinger, found out another organization in Gillette was doing a disabled archery hunt. He invited me to go down there with him to participate in helping that organization. It was fantastic! On the way home, we thought…why don’t we do the same here in Cody but with deer hunts? Soon after, Merlyn called me and said he got a board together and we opened the 501(c)(3) and now here we are! OFFICIALLY founded in 2008, deer hunting came in 2009.”
What are the out-of-pocket expenses for the participants?
“We pay room and board for all hunters, plus meat processing. Most hunter’s use a donated license. So really, they just pay travel to get here and home. Though, if they meet the income qualifications, that will be covered too!”
The organization relies heavily on discounted lodging, hunting access, equipment, food, transportation and volunteer support to keep those costs manageable. Landowners also play an important role by making hunting ground available.
Who Can Apply?
The organization’s application process is also competitive. Applicants must first obtain the appropriate Wyoming Game and Fish Department Disabled Hunter Permit before applying to WDH. The organization receives more than 100 applications in a year, while the number of available hunts is limited. Its current application information says hunters must rank their preferred species in the form. A hunter can ultimately receive only one WDH species hunt in a given year.
Because eligibility requirements and application procedures can change, prospective hunters should check the current requirements directly with WDH and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department before applying. If you are interested in volunteering, you can do so through their Volunteers Welcome page. If you have private land that you wish to open to WDH you can reach the organization by telephone at (307) 250-9805 or email: [email protected]
A Second Chance at the Field
In a state known for our vast mountains, wide-open plains and strong hunting traditions, WDH is helping ensure that those traditions remain accessible. Their work is about finding the equipment, people, and opportunities to allow hunters with disabilities to pursue the same outdoor experiences that have drawn generations of sportsmen and women to Wyoming. The reward is knowing they helped someone get back where they belong…in the field.
Stephanie Pate
Cody Journal Administrative Assistant
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