Mission

The Welder Wildlife Foundation’s mission is to cultivate a sustainable future for wildlife and their habitats, and grow an appreciation of natural resources through research, education, and land management programs that promote environmental stewardship, wildlife conservation, and management.

Rob’s Legacy

Rob Welder passed away on December 31, 1953, and the probate of his will in 1954 brought into being the Rob and Bessie Welder Wildlife Foundation as described in the excerpt from his will below: 

“It is my desire and my purpose to further the education of the people of Texas and elsewhere in wildlife conservation and in the knowledge of the breeding and living habits of our wild creatures, and in the relationship of wildlife to domestic livestock on our ranches and farms; to afford students and others interested in wildlife betterment and propagation and in the raising of wildlife along with domestic animals, a place for research and an opportunity for the study thereof; and to develop scientific methods of increasing the wildlife populations of the state and nation for the benefit of future generations of our people who may not have the opportunity to know and appreciate our wildlife, as I have, unless methods of increasing and conserving our wildlife are scientifically developed.  For these purposes I here create a foundation to be known as the Rob and Bessie Welder Wildlife Foundation.”

-Rob H. Welder (1891 – 1953)

Rob and Bessie Welder Wildlife Foundation

The Rob and Bessie Welder Wildlife Foundation is a non-profit tax-exempt organization established in 1954 upon the passing of Robert H. Welder. The Foundation honors the legacy of Mr. Welder through excellence in land stewardship, education, and discovery of knowledge needed to manage, restore, and protect wildlife populations and their habitats while sustaining the ranching heritage. All toward improving the quality of life for wildlife and people alike. 

The Foundation fulfills our mission of cultivating the future of wildlife conservation through research, education, land management, and preservation of outdoor and working land lifestyles by: 

 • Delivering a research program that enhances our understanding of wildlife populations and their habitats and provides science-based information for decision-making on all issues impacting natural resource conservation. 

 • Delivering an educational and outreach program that enhances the appreciation of and access to nature for all citizens.  

• Developing future leaders in conservation science and land stewardship.  

• Creating environmental stewards and supporters of natural resources that advocate for public policies that are critical to the long-term success of wildlife conservation.  

• Seeking the development and use of management practices that conserve and sustain wildlife populations and their habitats. 

• Aiming to preserve our hunting, fishing, outdoor recreation, and ranching heritage through the promotion of ethical and sustainable conservation.