Announcing GYC's transformative campaign for grizzly bears

In 2015, the Greater Yellowstone Coalition (GYC) silently launched an ambitious, yet thoughtful, 5-year, $10 million fundraising campaign in support of our grizzly bear work. Over the past four years, donors from across the nation have helped GYC achieve an enormous number of on-the-ground improvements that are keeping bears alive and people safe.

A grizzly bear in Yellowstone National Park. (Photo © GoeddelGallery.com)

With this campaign, GYC has focused on three critical goals: core habitat, reducing human/bear conflicts, and connecting Greater Yellowstone grizzly bears to populations further north.

The funds raised through this campaign have helped GYC bearproof hundreds of campgrounds, trailheads, and backcountry camps throughout the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. We have installed electric fencing, supported a range riders program, and educated hunters and the general public about bear safety and how to use bear spray. We have also worked collaboratively with ranchers and partner organizations to retire 320,000 acres of livestock grazing allotments where grizzly bears roam. Additionally, we have advocated for a conservation strategy and state management plans that allow grizzly bears to thrive regardless of their legal status.

To date, we’ve raised $8.3 million in cash, pledges, loaned, and leveraged funds. Between now and December 31, 2019, we hope to raise the final $1.7 million. If you’re interested in being a part of this historic campaign, please consider a gift this year to help us protect the grizzly bears of Greater Yellowstone. Together, we will make a lasting difference.

Thank you for all that you do for the lands, waters, and wildlife of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem!

—Melissa Richey, Director of Development