SCIF-HLF New Mexico Epic Elk Youth Hunt for a Youth with a Life-Threatening Illness

In June of 2025, SCIF received the exciting news that New Mexico Department of Game and Fish were awarding SCIF with a Governor’s Elk Tag for a resident/nonresident youth experiencing a life-threatening illness. The Governor’s Tag can be used at any time throughout this year’s elk hunting season for either bull or cow elk and could take place anywhere in New Mexico.

As the African proverb goes, “It takes a village to raise a child,” and nowhere is that truer than when a community comes together to turn a young person’s dream hunt into reality. It goes beyond handling hunting logistics; it is about a youth facing a life-threatening illness and the promise of a lifetime hunt. The Hunters Legacy Fund (HLF) stepped up, covering the cost of every detail—travel, food, lodging, meat processing, and taxidermy. Mia Anstine, SCI Member and SCIF Contractor Instructor, connected Laurine Wolf, SCIF Director of Education and Humanitarian Services, with Dave Montoya of Drop Tine Trophy Hunts. Dave is also on the Four Corners SCI Chapter’s Board of Directors. Dave not only offered his guiding services and finding a location—he poured his passion and expertise into the experience, using twelve years of knowledge in New Mexico to make sure this hunt would be truly memorable. Dave also volunteered to help identify the youth.

Thanks to Dave’s heartfelt determination, he was able to find a truly deserving young hunter—Camdon Farmer, a 16-year-old from Bloomfield, NM. Camdon’s story is one of resilience and courage. In 2019, when he was just 10 years old, he received the devastating diagnosis of T-Cell Leukemia. Facing a long and difficult road ahead, Camdon endured 3.5 grueling years of chemotherapy at UNM Children’s Hospital, fighting for his life with unimaginable strength and hope. Camdon and his family recently received the news that he is now in remission. His journey, marked by countless challenges and unwavering perseverance, made this hunt not just an adventure, but a celebration of triumph.

Camdon comes from a family of avid hunters, including his grandfather who was an outfitter, and his mother, Lacey Payne. His mother was heavily involved in this epic elk hunt. Lisa Brejsha, the NMDGF Special Hunts Officer, provided valuable assistance in obtaining his licenses and permits. Organizing the hunt presented a few challenges. The ideal location for the hunt would take place on the Valles Caldera National Preserve. The preserve is known for its mountain meadows, abundant wildlife, winding streams, and prized New Mexico elk. However, the government shutdowns halted progress. Gilbert Lovato, an associate of Dave Montoyo, granted Camdon, Dave, and his mother permission to access his property, but the trophy bull they were seeking did not appear. Another fortunate event followed. Kerri Romero, Director of the NM Counsel of Outfitter Guides, offered her help. She reached out to the Secretary of the Interior in Washington, D.C., to arrange access to the Valles Caldera National Preserve. Thanks to her efforts, they were granted entry through the handicap gate.

On the crisp morning of October 11, hearts pounding with anticipation, they rolled through the handicap gate into the Valles Caldera. After hiking for two miles, they saw an impressive herd of three hundred elk, including thirty-five mature bulls. Their bugles echoed throughout the valley. On top of that, they had the entire area to themselves, transforming the hunt into an intimate experience. But the rain moved in, and they had to hike out and head back to camp to dry out. They headed back out later in the afternoon and spotted an eight-by-six bull. By far, it was the biggest bull out of the thirty-five mature bulls. Camdon positioned himself and waited for the bull to enter a clearing. He then made an impressive shot from 580 yards away, hitting both lungs and bringing the bull down instantly. Camdon and his mother were completely overwhelmed with emotion. Camdon had managed to harvest an 8x6 point mature bull, a true monarch from the Valles Caldera! Camdon and the hunting party field dressed the elk and hiked it out the two miles. The meat is currently being processed, and a taxidermy shoulder mount is being made.

Every person involved in this NM Epic Elk Youth Hunt poured compassion and dedication into making this experience truly special. Their selfless acts and unwavering support came together to uplift Camdon and his family, reminding us of the incredible strength found in community. Moments like these shine brightly, change lives and create memories that will be cherished forever.

A SLICE OF HUNTING HISTORY

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