As the fields of ecology and conservation biology increasingly rely on models to address pertinent questions, there has been greater sharing of models among scientists. However, many models lack comprehensive documentation, especially in a format that is easy to use and to understand. Also, modelers lack a framework they can use when evaluating a model for its potential use. Here we outline how ecologists and conservation biologists can begin to establish a culture of good practice for model sharing. We offer suggestions on how model developers, model users, user communities, and journal editors can contribute to the appropriate sharing of ecological models.