Donna McDonald

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Donna Tate McDonald along with her husband Jake own and operate Upper Canyon Outfitters (UCO) in Southwest Montana. The ranch was homesteaded by Donna’s grandfather in 1910, and UCO remains one of the oldest and most respected outfitters in Montana.  Donna has a lifelong passion and deep ties to the outdoors.  

Donna has dedicated her personal and professional life to conservation, hunting and fishing.  Donna has been a licensed outfitter since 1989.  An avid horsewoman and outdoorswoman, she is internationally recognized for her equine knowledge, hunting, fishing and guiding skills and expertise.  Donna has a strong passion for hunting and preserving it for generations to come.  Both Jake and Donna are enthusiast about the outdoors and enjoy sharing it with others.  

Awards & Recognition: 

  • “Hero of Conservation,” May 2012 issue of Field & Stream  This award recognizes individuals who are committed to preserving natural resources across the United States.
  • Finalist for the 2014 Prois Awards.  The Prois Award recognizes the top female hunter based on experience, dedication to conservation and management, promotion of the hunting heritage and community outreach efforts.   These hunters are known for having guts, determination and a passion for the hunt. 
  • Honored American Veterans Afield (HAVA) In recognition of our commitment to help veterans with their passion for the great outdoors

Quick Facts

  • President & Shareholder, Upper Canyon Outfitters, Inc.
  • Co-Owner Tate Ranch, Alder, MT.
  • RMEF Sponsor & Habitat Member
  • RMEF Partners in Conservation Program
  • RMEF Board Committee Member: Government Affairs Committee & Land & Conservation Committee.
  • Past Board Member of Ruby Valley Watershed, America Outdoors Assoc., Mt. Outfitters & Guides Assoc., National Dude Ranchers Assoc.
  • Past Council member of Western Montana Resource Advisory Council for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Montana Governor’s-appointed Private Land/Public Wildlife Council
  • Married with 2 Children & 2 grandchildren

POSTS:

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Donna McDonald is the Gem of the Valley | Savage Journeys
October 13th, 2022

Donna McDonald is a hunter, rancher, business owner, and outfitter. She is a role model, mentor, guide, and leader. She is a conservationist and a jack of all trades. She is a trailblazer, pioneer, and a Montanan. She is passionate, wise, caring, and

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Donna McDonald | Women in the Outdoors
March 8th, 2022

This year for International Women’s Day, we are celebrating the outdoors and those who make it a better place for all. We want to shine a spotlight on some amazing women in the outdoors – leaders, role models, mentors, mothers, sisters, and