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BTNF signs ROD for Upper Green grazing (posted 10/15/19)
Project allows for continued cattle and horse grazing on 170,643 acres in the Upper Green River watershed
Bridger-Teton National Forest
The Pinedale Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest has signed the final record of decision for the Upper Green River Area Rangeland Project. The project allows for continued cattle and horse grazing on 170,643 acres in the Upper Green River watershed.
District Ranger Rob Hoelscher selected alternative three, as outlined in the final environmental impact statement, with some modifications. Under this decision, livestock grazing will continue on all six allotments. The decision uses livestock management strategies designed to sustain rangeland and riparian health, while improving resource conditions where needed.
In making the final decision, Hoelscher considered the environmental analysis, public comment, consultation with cooperators and federal agencies, as well as discussions from pre-decisional administrative review or objection processes. He said, "Grazing is an appropriate use of the National Forest and is important to the community economically and socially."
In creating his decision, Hoelscher took the needs and concerns of a diverse group of interested parties into account in order to achieve balance among such diverse positions.
"Crafting this decision was not easy. On the one hand, some want hard and fast direction and consequences. Permittees on the other hand desire flexibility for their operations," Hoelscher said. "I believe this decision does a bit of both while meeting the requirements of our land management plan."
One example of the modification in the final decision is to invite all interested parties to attend pre-grazing season annual meetings. This will ensure that future monitoring results, discussion of issues and development of solutions can be considered in a collaborative way.
The record of decision is available at http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=3049.
For more information, contact Rob Hoelscher, Pinedale District Ranger, at 307-367-5700, or P.O. Box 220, Pinedale, WY 82941.
Fourth Grade students receive free admission to America’s public lands for a year (posted 10/15/19)
Bureau of Land Management
Calling all fourth graders!!! BLM is happy to once again sponsor "The Every Kid Outdoors Program." The annual pass provides fourth grade students, along with their families, friends and classmates, free access to more than 2,000 other federal recreation areas for a year. The program encourages fourth graders to explore, learn, and recreate in spectacular settings, including national parks, wildlife refuges, marine sanctuaries, and forests.
"There is so much to discover on public lands," said Acting BLM Wyoming State Director Duane Spencer. "Visits on class trips or family vacations to experience our wide open landscapes and historic treasures will provide lifelong memories."
To obtain the free pass, fourth grade students can visit the Every Kid Outdoors website, participate in a short educational activity, and download a voucher. The voucher is valid for between September 1, 2019 and August 31, 2020 to correspond to the traditional school year. The voucher may be exchanged for a plastic keepsake pass at participating federal lands.
The voucher or pass grants free entry for fourth graders, all children under 16 in the group and up to three accompanying adults (or an entire car for drive-in parks) to most federally managed lands and waters. The pass does not cover expanded amenity fees such as camping or boat rides.
The great outdoors make a great classroom. Fourth grade educators are encouraged to take advantage of the wide range of educational programs and tools associated with the Every Kid Outdoors program. Educational activities, field trip options, information and tools in English and Spanish, and the ability to print vouchers for passes for students are all available on the website.
The Every Kid Outdoors Program was established by Congress in 2019. It replaces the Every Kid in a Park Program which was launched in 2015. It is an interagency collaboration between the National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Reclamation, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and U.S. Forest Service.
For more information about the Every Kid Outdoors Program, go to: https://everykidoutdoors.gov, call Keith Brown, outdoor recreation planner at (307) 775-6031, kmbrown@blm.gov or Cindy Wertz, public affairs specialist, (307) 775-6014, cwertz@blm.gov.
BLM announces annual adjustment to drilling permit fee (posted 10/15/19)
Non-Refundable fee raised to $10,230 for BLM to process oil and gas drilling permits on public and Indian lands
Bureau of Land Management
As directed by Congress, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will adjust the fee it charges to process oil and gas drilling permits on public and Indian lands for inflation, effective October 1, 2019. That adjustment will increase the fee by $180, to $10,230.
The non-refundable processing fee is collected when an oil and gas operator submits a drilling permit (called an Application for Permit to Drill or APD), and is required whether or not a particular permit is subsequently approved. Congress established the fee and directed the BLM to adjust the APD fee annually for inflation over 10 years as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2015.
To carry out this statutory requirement, the BLM has issued guidance to its field offices regarding the collection and handling of APD fees in the current fiscal year. The new guidance largely tracks prior guidance with respect to collection and handling policies such as when the fee is required; when the BLM will begin processing the APD; and acceptable forms of payment.
This fee is an important component of the funding for the BLM’s permitting program and enhances the agency’s ability to coordinate with other Federal and State agencies in connection with oil and gas permitting, streamlining permit review processes, and reducing permitting times. Fifteen percent of the fees are directly returned to the BLM field office that collected the fees to offset some of the costs of processing protests, leases, and permits. The remaining 85 percent is used to support project offices that perform the majority of the permit processing and inspection work across the BLM. In Fiscal Year 2019, the BLM collected almost $51 million in APD fees.
BLM updates mineral cost recovery fee schedule (posted 10/15/19)
Bureau of Land Management
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has issued a final rule, effective October 1, 2019, which updates the cost recovery fees that the BLM charges for processing certain actions undertaken by its mineral programs. Specifically, this final rule updates the fees charged to recover costs incurred in processing certain documents associated with oil, gas, coal, and solid mineral activities on public lands, including fees associated with mineral patent adjudications. Consistent with updates to the fee schedules in prior years, this final rule increases the fee schedule based on inflation.
The BLM is authorized to charge cost recovery fees under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 and the 2005 Cost Recovery Rule. The fee schedule is adjusted annually based on the change in the Implicit Price Deflator for Gross Domestic Product, or IPD-GDP, from the 4th Quarter of one calendar year to the 4th Quarter of the following calendar year. The IPD-GDP is published annually by the Department of Commerce.
Under this final rule, 24 fees will remain the same and 24 fees will increase. Of the 24 fees that are being increased by this rule, 13 will increase by $5 each, seven will increase by $10 each, two will increase by $15 each, and two will increase by more than $15 each. The fees increasing by more than $15 are the fee for adjudicating a mineral patent application containing more than 10 claims, which will increase by $75, from $3,215 to $3,290, and the fee for adjudicating a patent application containing 10 or fewer claims, which will increase by $40, from $1,605 to $1,645.
The updated fees are based on a common mathematical formula used by businesses nationwide to adjust their expenses. This fee update rule uses the change in the IPD-GDP from the 4th Quarter of 2017 to the 4th Quarter of 2018, which reflects the rate of inflation over four calendar quarters.
BLM proposes rule to streamline Royalty Rate Reduction Process (posted 10/15/19)
For Non-Energy Solid Minerals mined on public lands
Bureau of Land Management
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) proposed a rule that will remove unnecessary and overly burdensome requirements and provide much needed regulatory relief and efficiencies for producers of non-energy solid leasable minerals. The proposed rule could stimulate up to $4.5 million of additional economic activity over the next 10 years.
These minerals include soda ash, potash, phosphate, sodium, potassium, sulphur, and gilsonite. With the publication of the proposed rule in the Federal Register, the BLM will initiate a 60-day public comment period.
"Non-energy solid minerals are vital in the production of such everyday products as toothpaste and garden fertilizers," said Department of the Interior Acting Assistant Secretary of Land and Minerals Management Casey Hammond. "With this proposed rule, the BLM will provide industry with much-needed relief when tough markets make it more difficult to develop these minerals, which support thousands of American jobs in local communities."
Mineral development is an important land use within the BLM's multiple-use mandate, providing economic opportunities and commodities that are essential to maintaining a high quality of life. In fiscal year 2017, the development of non-energy minerals on BLM-managed public lands contributed $13.4 billion to the national economy and supported 48,000 jobs.
The U.S. was once the world’s leading producer of soda ash, a non-energy solid leasable mineral, but Chinese production surpassed domestic production in 2003. With updates in the proposed rule that streamline the reduction process for non-energy solid minerals, the proposal will improve the BLM’s ability to support development and production of the Federal mineral estate.
"Wyoming is home to large deposits of soda ash, and the exploration, development and production of this commodity is done under state-of-the-art industrial, labor, and environmental standards," Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon said. "A reduction of the federal royalty rate to two percent is essential to the long-term global competitiveness of the soda ash industry. This proposed rule will protect jobs in both Wyoming and other states in the industry supply chain and will also enable strategic capital investment for future growth and job creation."
The proposed rule would streamline the process for lessees to seek and/or for the BLM to provide relief in the terms for rental fees, royalty rates and/or minimum production requirements associated with these minerals.
Informed by Secretarial Order 3354, which calls for improvements in the exploration and development of Federal solid mineral resources, the proposed rule also addresses permitting efficiencies and processing times.
The proposed rule would make two key changes that could affect the royalties and rental fees paid by producers of solid leasable minerals other than coal and oil shale on Federal lands. First, it would streamline the process by which producers of these minerals could apply for a reduction in their royalty rate, rental fee or minimum production requirements by lessening the information requirements for operators who apply. This would allow the BLM to approve a reduction in the rental fee, royalty or minimum production requirements on a lease-by-lease basis in response to an application from a producer, if the agency finds that a lease cannot be successfully operated under current market conditions.
In addition, the proposed rule would allow the BLM to reduce the rental fee, royalty rate or minimum production requirements on its own initiative if it finds that a reduction is necessary to develop a type of solid minerals on an area- or on an industry-wide basis.
By reducing informational requirements, the BLM estimates the proposed modifications would have a beneficial impact of up to a half-million dollars per year over the next decade on industry and government staff time in the form of reduced paperwork burdens.
Interested parties may submit comments, identified by the number RIN 1004-AE58, by any of the following methods:
• Mail: U.S. Department of the Interior, Director (630), Bureau of Land Management, Mail Stop 2134 LM, 1849 C St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20240, Attention: RIN 1004-AE58.
• Personal or messenger delivery: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management, 20 M Street, S.E., Room 2134LM, Washington, DC 20003, Attention: Regulatory Affairs.
• Federal eRulemaking portal: http://www.regulations.gov. In the Searchbox, enter "RIN 1004-AE58" and click the "Search" button. Follow the instruction at this website.
Wolf News Roundup 10/12/2019 (posted 10/12/19)
Cat Urbigkit, Pinedale Online!
Wyoming Wolf Hunt
With the Sept. 1 opening of the wolf hunting season in many of western Wyoming’s trophy wolf hunt areas, quotas have been reached in four hunt areas, so those areas are now closed.
This includes: the quota of four wolves has been reached in the Clarks Fork Hunt Area 1; the quota of two wolves has been reached in Area 3, the South Fork; the Wind River Hunt Area 5 quota of one wolf has been reached; and the two-wolf quota at The Rim (Hunt Area 10) has also been reached.
Of the total quota of 35 wolves available for legal harvest in the state’s wolf trophy zone, 18 wolves have been killed by hunters as of Friday, Oct. 11. An additional 20 wolves have been killed so far this year in the remainder of Wyoming, where wolves are classified as predators.
Wolf Cull Successful
The population of three mountain caribou herds in northeastern British Columbia has increased by 49 percent in four years due to an experimental wolf cull program, according to a new report from the British Columbia government. "These caribou herds have declined drastically in response to landscape changes that altered predator-prey dynamics and led to high rates of predation by wolves. The decrease in wolf abundance across the South Peace treatment area has shown conclusive evidence that intensive wolf reduction has halted and reversed the declining trends of the Klinse-Za, Kennedy Siding, and Quintette caribou populations."
"Aerial wolf reduction has been shown to be the most targeted and effective method of intensively reducing wolf populations over large geographic areas to elicit strong population responses in caribou herds. Both the efficacy and efficiency of the South Peace wolf reduction program has increased over time. The success of the program is contingent on utilizing experienced and proficient removal crews, operating during optimal weather conditions, and maintaining a high level of operational oversight by provincial Ministry staff. Wolf reduction is a management tool that must be used responsibly and ethically, and implemented with the highest standards for humaneness and scientific rigour. Wolf reduction programs should be considered as an effective interim management tool for halting and reversing caribou declines, while the ultimate causes (i.e. habitat alteration) of such declines are addressed. Based on the findings of the five-year wolf reduction program in the South Peace, it is highly recommended that wolf reduction continue to be implemented to support these particular caribou herds towards meeting the ultimate management objective of self-sustaining populations."
WA Cattlemen
After Washington Governor Jay Inslee told his state wildlife agency to reduce the number of lethal control actions for cattle-killing wolves (earning praise from the Center for Biological Diversity), the Stevens County Cattlemen’s Association responded that his association and the governor agree on one thing: that current management of wolves isn’t working. For more, see the Statesman Examiner article linked below.
Check out the links below for details on these stories.
Related Links:
Wolf Cull Program - BC government
WA wolves - Statesman Examiner
Wolf Watch - by Cat Urbigkit, Pinedale Online!
October 12, 2019
Wyoming Wolf Hunt
With the Sept. 1 opening of the wolf hunting season in many of western Wyoming’s trophy wolf hunt areas, quotas have been reached in four hunt areas, so those areas are now closed.
This includes: the quota of four wolves has been reached in the Clarks Fork Hunt Area 1; the quota of two wolves has been reached in Area 3, the South Fork; the Wind River Hunt Area 5 quota of one wolf has been reached; and the two-wolf quota at The Rim (Hunt Area 10) has also been reached.
Of the total quota of 35 wolves available for legal harvest in the state’s wolf trophy zone, 18 wolves have been killed by hunters as of Friday, Oct. 11. An additional 20 wolves have been killed so far this year in the remainder of Wyoming, where wolves are classified as predators.
Wolf Cull Successful
The population of three mountain caribou herds in northeastern British Columbia has increased by 49 percent in four years due to an experimental wolf cull program, according to a new report from the British Columbia government. "These caribou herds have declined drastically in response to landscape changes that altered predator-prey dynamics and led to high rates of predation by wolves. The decrease in wolf abundance across the South Peace treatment area has shown conclusive evidence that intensive wolf reduction has halted and reversed the declining trends of the Klinse-Za, Kennedy Siding, and Quintette caribou populations."
"Aerial wolf reduction has been shown to be the most targeted and effective method of intensively reducing wolf populations over large geographic areas to elicit strong population responses in caribou herds. Both the efficacy and efficiency of the South Peace wolf reduction program has increased over time. The success of the program is contingent on utilizing experienced and proficient removal crews, operating during optimal weather conditions, and maintaining a high level of operational oversight by provincial Ministry staff. Wolf reduction is a management tool that must be used responsibly and ethically, and implemented with the highest standards for humaneness and scientific rigour. Wolf reduction programs should be considered as an effective interim management tool for halting and reversing caribou declines, while the ultimate causes (i.e. habitat alteration) of such declines are addressed. Based on the findings of the five-year wolf reduction program in the South Peace, it is highly recommended that wolf reduction continue to be implemented to support these particular caribou herds towards meeting the ultimate management objective of self-sustaining populations."
WA Cattlemen
After Washington Governor Jay Inslee told his state wildlife agency to reduce the number of lethal control actions for cattle-killing wolves (earning praise from the Center for Biological Diversity), the Stevens County Cattlemen’s Association responded that his association and the governor agree on one thing: that current management of wolves isn’t working. For more, see the Statesman Examiner article linked below.
Check out the links below for details on these stories.
Related Links:
Wolf Cull Program - BC government
WA wolves - Statesman Examiner
Wolf Watch - by Cat Urbigkit, Pinedale Online!
Beauty & the Beast Oct 24-26 in Pinedale
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Beauty & the Beast opens October 24 (posted 10/11/19)
Pinedale Theatre
The Pinedale Theatre production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast opens Thursday, October 24 for a three-night run at the Sheppard Auditorium. Featuring local actors who have been rehearsing since August, this will be the biggest production in history for Pinedale Theatre who stage a musical every other year. Tickets are now on sale for all shows including a Saturday matinee.
Beauty and the Beast Show Times:
Thursday, Oct. 24: 7 p.m. at Sheppard Auditorium
Friday, October 25: 7 p.m. at Sheppard Auditorium
Saturday (Matinee), October 26: 2 p.m. at Sheppard Auditorium
Saturday, October 26: 7 p.m. at Sheppard Auditorium
Based on the book by Linda Woolverton, "Beauty and the Beast" is the 10th-longest-running Broadway show of all time. October’s Pinedale production will feature custom stage and set, special effects and costumes shipped directly from Maine!
Tickets are $20 adult / $7 student and are available at Office Outlets, Cowboy Shop, Pine Coffee, Big Piney Library and online at pinedalefinearts.com.
Beauty and the Beast is presented by Pinedale Theatre with support from The Wyoming Arts Council, The Wyoming Community Foundation and The Sublette County Recreation Board.
Wyoming residents urged to prepare for expected early-winter storm (posted 10/8/19)
Wyoming Department of Transportation
An early-winter storm is possible early Wednesday through Thursday, and it is expected to extend from northwest Wyoming through the southeast part of the Cowboy State.
In preparation for the upcoming winter storm and colder weather, National Weather Service and Wyoming Department of Transportation are encouraging people to build a vehicle winter safety kit and know where to get the latest weather forecasts and road conditions.
"When you travel Wyoming, you can drive long distances without services, so travelers need to be ready to wait out a storm if they become stranded. Having a winter safety kit packed in your vehicle is a must," said Riverton NWS warning coordination meterologist Tim Troutman.
A vehicle winter safety kit should include non-perishable food, water, essential medications, blankets, flashlights, and a first aid kit. Troutman said travelers should always dress for winter weather when driving and charge cell phones before departing.
"We have heard too many stories of people wearing shorts and sandals when driving across Wyoming. Those won’t do you much good if you become stranded or are in an accident," Troutman said.
Even with a winter safety kit packed in the vehicle, Troutman said travelers should be prepared to alter or cancel travel plans if hazardous driving conditions are expected.
"Check the latest weather forecast at www.weather.gov/riverton or call the Riverton NWS office at 1-800-211-1448 to get the latest forecasts," said Troutman.
He said NWS offices serving Wyoming also maintain an active social media presence. "We routinely use Facebook and Twitter to share important forecast and current weather and road conditions."
Travelers are also encouraged to check the latest WYDOT road and travel information by calling 511 or by going online to http://www.wyoroad.info. The WYDOT smart phone app provides pre-trip and travel information. The app can be used to view the large WYDOT network of web cameras, a color-coded system that shows pavement conditions and traffic hazards, and it can provide traveler location information to friends and family. The app is available for both Android and Apple phones.
"Drivers need to keep their hands on the wheel, phone down and eyes on the road. The Wyoming 511 pre-trip app will give you road conditions and traffic incidents for the route you are traveling, improving traveler safety," said WYDOT public relations specialist Cody Beers of Riverton.
Beers said motorists share responsibility of protection of life and property. "Give yourself extra time to reach your destination, drive at appropriate speeds to maintain vehicle control, always wear your seat belt, and stay well back from operating snow plows," Beers said.
Troutman and Beers said their agencies routinely coordinate winter weather impacts and messaging in an effort to provide a consistent message.
"When we share the same message, it usually increases traveler confidence in what conditions to expect," said Beers. "We want everyone to make the best possible decision when choosing where and when to travel."
Wolf News Roundup 10/07/2019 (posted 10/7/19)
Cat Urbigkit, Pinedale Online!
Wyoming Wolf Hunt
With the Sept. 1 opening of the wolf hunting season in many of western Wyoming’s trophy wolf hunt areas, quotas have been reached in four hunt areas, so those areas are now closed.
This includes: the quota of four wolves has been reached in the Clarks Fork Hunt Area 1; the quota of two wolves has been reached in Area 3, the South Fork; the Wind River Hunt Area 5 quota of one wolf has been reached; and the two-wolf quota at The Rim (Hunt Area 10) has also been reached.
Of the total quota of 35 wolves available for legal harvest in the state’s wolf trophy zone, 16 wolves have been killed by hunters as of Thursday, Oct. 3. An additional 19 wolves have been killed so far this year in the remainder of Wyoming, where wolves are classified as predators.
WA Governor Opposes Lethal Control
Washington Governor Jay Inslee sent a letter to the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife asking for changes to the gray wolf recovery program. The governor asked WDFW to provide him with an update to his requests and recommendations for additional action by December 1.
The letter reads, in part, "I understand that conflicts between wolves and livestock do occur, especially as the state's wolf population continues to grow. The department, working with the Wolf Advisory Group, livestock producers, hunters, conservation groups and others, has made significant progress in securing both gray wolf recovery and increasing the social tolerance of wolves on the Washington state landscape. The State's Wolf Conservation and Management Plan (Wolf Plan) has contributed to the recovery of this species, and is a model of citizenry engagement and statewide leadership. I acknowledge that the Wolf Plan is successful in most parts of our state...Chronic livestock depredations and annual lethal removal of wolves in the Kettle River Range in Ferry County, have resulted in public concern and outrage over lethal management actions taken by the department.
"I share the public's concern and am troubled that the Wolf Plan does not appear to be working as intended in this particular area in Northeastern Washington. I believe we cannot continue using the same management approach on this particular landscape. We must look for other strategies that address the unique nature of this particular geographical area, an area which has been characterized as prime gray wolf habitat. We must find new methods to better support co-existence between Washington’s livestock industry and gray wolves in our state. The status quo of annual lethal removal is simply unacceptable."
Irish Rewilding
A Green Party leader has called for the reintroduction of wolves into Ireland, but a governmental minister says that there are no plans in place for such an action, and that releasing wolves would do considerable damage to farming and existing conservation programs.
Belgium Reward
Environmental groups have offered about $33,000 as a reward for information about the assumed death of a wild wolf in Belgium. Although the adult female wolf’s body has not been located, the groups assert that illegal hunting has resulted in the animal’s disappearance.
Check out the links below for details on these stories.
Related Links:
Wy Harvest Limits - Wyoming Game & Fish Department
Ireland - RTE.com
Washington Governor - Read the letter here.
Belgium - Newsweek
Wolf Watch - by Cat Urbigkit, Pinedale Online!
First Lady Melania Trump was in Wyoming Thursday and Friday, October 3 & 4 visiting the Jackson Hole area.
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First Lady Melania Trump visits Wyoming (posted 10/5/19)
Visits Jackson, seeks elk refuge, meets with local school children, rafts the Snake River, stops at Grand Teton National Park Oct. 3 & 4
White House
First Lady Melania Trump traveled to Wyoming on Thursday, October 3rd (2019) for a two day visit in Wyoming highlighting some of our nation’s most treasured National Parks, sharing BE BEST’s message of wellbeing.
After arriving in Jackson, Wyoming, Mrs. Trump joined a group of the Jackson District Boy Scouts at Jackson Hole Town Square, under the iconic elk antler arches. The First Lady was met by Mindy Kim-Miller, the first woman Scoutmaster in Jackson. The scouts talked with the First Lady about the important part they play in the long-standing relationship between the Boy Scouts and the National Elk Refuge – which dates back to the 1950s. The antlers are collected on the refuge and sold at auction. The majority of the proceeds return to the refuge in support of elk management and habitat enhancement. The remaining funds stay with the local Boy Scout troop. Prior to departing, Mrs. Trump visited the Veterans Memorial in the town square. Director of the Teton County/Jackson Parks and Recreation, Steve Ashworth, provided an overview of the historical Veterans Memorial and Veterans Art Project.
In the afternoon, Mrs. Trump and fourth graders from the Teton County School district traveled by river raft down a scenic stretch of Jackson Hole’s Snake River. They observed a protected sanctuary of wildlife, pristine local vegetation, sagebrush plateaus, cottonwood and spruce forests, and wildflowers. The entire Teton Range was also visible in the distance. Accompanying the group was owner and guide, John Turner and his great nephew.
Friday morning, Mrs. Trump traveled to Teton National Park where she was met by Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt and Acting Superintendent of Grand Teton National Park Gopaul Noojiabail. The First Lady met with dozens of second and fourth graders inside the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center. Inside, the young students were at various stations set up around the room. Each station had an activity to help children learn more about the outdoors. Mrs. Trump distributed "Every Kid Outdoors" passes – a continuation from last month when she distributed passes at the reopening of the Washington Monument. The passes are part of a National Park Service’s program, which provides fourth graders with free access to beautiful parks and waters across the country.
The First Lady’s initiative, BE BEST, continues to highlight resources for children that build an important relationship between America’s natural heritage and the next generation. The Every Kid Outdoors program offers fourth grade students the chance to connect with nature and observe some of the country’s greatest natural phenomena and treasures.
Mrs. Trump and Secretary Bernhardt also observed an arrowhead presentation by the visiting students.
Prior to departing, the First Lady visited the Snake River Overlook. There, she read about the area’s geography and took in the views of the Teton Range. After a scenic drive along the periphery of the National Elk Refuge, the motorcade made one final stop outdoors where Mrs. Trump posed for a few photos in front of the Grand Teton National Park sign to commemorate her visit.
"This trip highlighted some of the beautiful national parks, lands, and waters that make up our country," said First Lady Melania Trump. "Spending time outdoors with children and learning more about our incredible and complex surroundings was a very meaningful experience for me. I want to thank the people of Wyoming for making me feel so welcomed. I also want to thank the many dedicated organizations including Jackson District Boy Scouts and the National Park Service for all they do in protecting and taking care of our national parks."
Source: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/readout-first-lady-melania-trumps-visit-wyoming/
Related Links:
Melania Trump on the Town Square in Jackson
Hunters asked to help collect samples for CWD research (posted 10/5/19)
Wyoming Game & Fish
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department needs help from hunters this fall to collect lymph node samples from elk for chronic wasting disease (CWD) testing in targeted areas near Pinedale. Hunters are a very important component in helping Game and Fish understand the disease and achieve CWD monitoring goals.
The Pinedale Regional Game and Fish Office is asking hunters who harvest elk in hunt areas 97 and 98 to submit samples for testing. These areas are targeted for more intensive sampling this year with the aim of determining CWD prevalence and providing insight for future management decisions. Hunters outside of this year’s focused surveillance areas can still submit a sample for testing.
Hunters can have animals sampled at any game check station this season or by stopping by the Pinedale Regional Office. If you visit the Regional Office outside of normal business hours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday), or if personnel are unavailable, there will be a drop box for you to leave the elk head for sampling. When leaving a head in a drop box, hunters are asked to document their license number, date of harvest and hunt area where the animal was taken. Hunters can also learn how to take a sample by watching a how-to video on the Game and Fish website.
Results from CWD testing are available online within three weeks. Hunters can expedite results within 10 working days for a $30 fee; contact the Wyoming State Veterinary Lab in Laramie at (307) 766-9925 for more information.
Hunters also need to be aware of Wyoming carcass transport rules to prevent the spread of CWD within Wyoming and other states. Wyoming’s regulations require deer, elk and moose hunters transport only the following items within Wyoming:
• Deer, elk and moose can be transported to a camp, private residence for processing, a taxidermist, a processor or a CWD sample collection site in Wyoming provided the head and all portions of the spinal column remain at the site of kill or such parts are disposed in any approved landfill or approved incinerator in Wyoming. A listing of landfills that will accept waste from processed game animals and whole carcasses is available on the Game and Fish website.
• Cut and wrapped meat
• Edible portions with no portion of the spinal column or head attached
• Cleaned hide without the head attached
• Skull, skull plate or antlers that have been cleaned of all meat and brain tissue
• Teeth
• Finished taxidermy mounts
Whole deer, elk and moose carcasses cannot be transported out of Wyoming. The only parts approved to leave the state are edible portions with no part of the spinal column or head; cleaned hide without the head; skull, skull plate or antlers that have been cleaned of all meat and brain tissue; teeth; or finished taxidermy mounts. All hunters need to check with their home states for the rules about importing deer, elk or moose from Wyoming.
More information and resources for hunters on CWD is available on the Game and Fish CWD webpage.
Related Links:
Hunters: Submit CWD Samples Wyoming Game & Fish
Pile burning planned on Bridger-Teton National Forest in Sublette County (posted 10/1/19)
Smoke may be visible at times
Bridger-Teton National Forest
PINEDALE, WYOMING – Beginning this week (beginning of October, 2019), the Bridger-Teton National Forest plans to burn piles of slash generated by timber sales, hazard tree removal, and fuel reduction work on the Pinedale and Big Piney Ranger Districts. This work will continue throughout the fall and winter as favorable conditions allow.
Piles to be burned are located in the following areas:
Big Sandy Lodge
Sylvan Bay Summer Home Community Pile
White Pine/2018 Force Unit #3
Upper Kelly Force Unit
New Fork Lakes Scout Camp
Red Cliff
N. Fork Fisherman Cr. Community Pile
Some South Fort Units
Sylvan Bay Piles
Surveyor Ridge
Some West Fort Units
Some East Fort Units
Some Sweeney Units
Sweeney Force Unit
Sweeney Repile Unit
Old Road Timber Sale
Cabins Post and Pole
Green River Lakes Lodge
Fence Debris Piles
Brief concentrations of smoke may be visible when crews ignite the piles. The overall duration of the projects will vary with weather conditions and may last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Fire managers are also planning on burning the last Cottonwood II prescribed burn unit, located in Sjhoberg Creek on the Big Piney Ranger District in North Cottonwood area, this fall when conditions become favorable. For additional information about these burning operations, please contact the Big Piney Ranger District office at 307-276-5800.
For additional information on the Bridger-Teton National Forest, visit http://www.fs.usda.gov/btnf, follow us on Twitter (@BridgerTetonNF), or like us on Facebook (US Forest Service – Bridger-Teton National Forest). Anyone can receive news from the Bridger-Teton National Forest by self-subscribing to our mailing list by following this link https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/btnf/home In the center of the page enter your email address and then submit the request. You will then be able to choose what news release topics you wish to receive.
Required REAL ID for travelers. Graphic courtesy Department of Homeland Security.
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REAL ID will be required by Oct. 1, 2020 (posted 10/1/19)
New ID required for travelers to fly within the United States
Department of Homeland Security
WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reminds travelers that the upcoming REAL ID requirement and enforcement will start one year from today. Beginning October 1, 2020, every traveler must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or other acceptable forms of identification, such as a valid passport or U.S. military ID, to fly within the United States. Individuals who are unable to verify their identity will not be permitted to enter the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint and will not be allowed to fly.
"This is an important step in enhancing commercial aviation security and we urge travelers to ensure they have compliant documents," said Acting Secretary Kevin K. McAleenan. "DHS is committed to working with states as they continue their efforts to issue REAL IDs to Americans."
• Real progress has been made in less than two years. In January of 2017, only 26 states were REAL ID compliant.
• Through voluntary partnerships with state governments, associations, DMVs, and other stakeholders in all 50 states and 6 territories, DHS can proudly say that 47 out of 50 states are currently REAL ID compliant.
• There is still work to do. Only 27% of Americans have been issued a REAL ID at this time.
DHS has been working to increase public attention and focus on the upcoming deadline. Beginning in April, TSA has displayed signs at airports notifying the public of changing requirement. In August, TSA began verbally advising travelers who present non-compliant licenses of the upcoming REAL ID requirement and enforcement date. TSA has also co-hosted REAL ID events with motor vehicle administration officials in numerous locations around the country throughout the spring and summer, with more to come.
REAL ID-compliant licenses are marked by a star on the top of the card. Michigan, Vermont, Minnesota, and New York states issue both REAL ID and state-issued enhanced driver’s licenses, both of which are acceptable. Washington state issues enhanced driver’s licenses only. These documents will be accepted at the airport security checkpoint when the REAL ID enforcement goes into effect. Travelers who are not sure if their state-issued ID is compliant should check with their state driver’s license agency.
In addition, DHS has been working closely with the government officials of all 56 states and territories as well as the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators and the National Governors Association to implement REAL ID and provide technical assistance.
Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act implements the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the federal government "set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses." The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits federal agencies from accepting licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards for official purposes, such as at airport security checkpoints.
The regulations established the deadline of October 1, 2020, to ensure full enforcement of the REAL ID Act. States have made considerable progress in meeting this key recommendation of the 9/11 Commission.
For more information on how to become REAL ID compliant, check with your local state driver’s license agency. To download and print informational materials, visit tsa.gov/real-id.
WYDOT Authorized Travel program streamlined (posted 10/1/19)
For those needing permission to travel on closed sections of highways
Wyoming Department of Transportation
Wyoming motorists who need permission to travel on closed sections of highways when conditions are safe may be eligible for faster approval into the state’s authorized travel program.
The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) is streamlining its WYDOT Authorized Travel (WAT) program to allow faster approval for new and renewing Wyoming applicants under certain conditions. Once approved, WAT users would then receive travel permission alerts the same way.
WYDOT decided to implement a faster-approval system to help when the state has rolling closures on roads like Interstate 80. Those closures typically occur during winter storms when a city reaches its capacity and services are no longer available for additional vehicles.
"To receive faster approval, a person must have a Wyoming address, vehicle registration and driver license," said Ali Ragan, project manager for WYDOT’s Intelligent Transportation Systems program. "They also can’t have more than six segments of road they are applying for."
Under the WAT program, WYDOT gives motorists permission to travel if their destinations are between the closure gates and impassable portions of the road. The program is designed primarily for local commuters who travel between home and work, school, medical appointments and agricultural property.
WAT doesn’t give blanket permission for motorists to travel during every road closure. The only time WYDOT will notify a person is if the section they requested is safe to travel and not impacted by any events that closed the road initially.
Under the new streamlined system, everyone who previously applied to the WAT program will need to reapply as well as those who are new to the program.
Out-of-state applicants and Wyoming residents who request travel on more than six segments will apply online as well but their applications could take longer for approval.
To apply for the WAT program, motorists can visit the Wyoming Travel Information Service website (https://www.wyoroad.info/) and click on the WAT icon. Motorists will need to submit justification for travel, road sections they need to travel, and driver contact and vehicle information.
Hunters: Submit CWD samples (posted 9/29/19)
Samples important for chronic wasting disease monitoring
Wyoming Game & Fish
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department needs help from hunters this fall to collect lymph node samples from deer and elk for chronic wasting disease (CWD) testing in targeted areas across Wyoming. Hunters are a very important component in helping Game and Fish understand the disease and achieve CWD monitoring goals
Game and Fish is targeting deer hunt areas 17, 18, 23, 26, 34, 61, 74-77, 88, 89, 105, 106, 109, 121-123, 132, 133, 157, 168 and 171. Elk focus hunt areas include 8-12, 88-91, 97, 98, 110, 114 and 125.
"We are asking hunters in these areas to please submit a lymph node sample from their harvested deer or elk for testing," said Scott Edberg, deputy chief of wildlife. "Your efforts will help Game and Fish further understand the impacts of the disease as well as evaluate future management actions for deer and elk."
Hunters outside of this year’s focused surveillance areas can still submit a sample for testing. Hunters can learn how to take a sample by watching a how-to video on the Game and Fish website. Hunters can also have animals sampled at any game check station this season or by stopping at the Game and Fish Headquarters or regional offices from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Results from CWD testing are available online within three weeks. Hunters can expedite results within 10 working days for a $30 fee; contact the Wyoming State Veterinary Lab in Laramie at (307) 766-9925 for more information.
Continued monitoring of CWD over time is important to help Game and Fish understand the potential impacts of the disease as well as evaluate future management actions for deer and elk.
"This will be a challenge for Game and Fish as collecting samples for valid estimates of prevalence requires large sample sizes in focused areas across the state," Edberg said.
The Game and Fish Wildlife Health Laboratory has limited testing capacity to monitor CWD across the entire state so focused sampling will rotate hunt areas each year.
Hunters also need to be aware of Wyoming carcass transport rules to prevent the spread of CWD within Wyoming and other states. Wyoming’s regulations require deer, elk and moose hunters transport only the following items within Wyoming:
Deer, elk and moose can be transported to a camp, private residence for processing, a taxidermist, a processor or a CWD sample collection site in Wyoming provided the head and all portions of the spinal column remain at the site of kill or such parts are disposed in any approved landfill or approved incinerator in Wyoming. A listing of landfills that will accept waste from processed game animals and whole carcasses is available on the Game and Fish website.
Cut and wrapped meat
Edible portions with no portion of the spinal column or head attached
Cleaned hide without the head attached
Skull, skull plate or antlers that have been cleaned of all meat and brain tissue
Teeth
Finished taxidermy mounts
Whole deer, elk and moose carcasses cannot be transported out of Wyoming. The only parts approved to leave the state are edible portions with no part of the spinal column or head; cleaned hide without the head; skull, skull plate or antlers that have been cleaned of all meat and brain tissue; teeth; or finished taxidermy mounts. All hunters need to check with their home states for the rules about importing deer, elk or moose from Wyoming.
Since 1997, the Wyoming Game and Fish has been monitoring the distribution and prevalence of CWD to better understand how this disease may affect the health of Wyoming’s deer and elk populations. Initial surveillance goals focused on the detection of CWD in new areas of the state along with monitoring the disease. This disease has now been identified in most deer hunt areas across Wyoming and necessitates a shift in focus of the program from detection to monitoring.
More information and resources for hunters on CWD is available on the Game and Fish CWD webpage.
BTNF releases Draft Record of Decision for Invasive Plants (posted 9/27/19)
Bridger-Teton National Forest
The Bridger-Teton National Forest has released the draft Record of Decision (ROD) and the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) for the Invasive Plant Management Project.
The draft decision selects Alternative 2. Under this decision, the Forest would treat invasive plant species on 20,000 acres of the Bridger-Teton using a combination of manual, mechanical, biological, aerial and ground herbicide applications. This adaptive and integrated strategy would also use a condition-based management approach which offers a way to manage changing or new infestations and new treatment options, while addressing any resource concerns.
The Bridger-Teton National Forest conducted an environmental analysis of treating invasive plant species on the Forest over the next 15-years. The FEIS disclosed potential effects of a breadth of alternatives, including a no action alternative. The FEIS is available online at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=52791. The Notice of Availability (NOA) of the draft ROD was published in the Federal Register on 27 September, 2019.
This draft decision is subject to the 45-day objection process. Objections will be accepted until November 12, 2019 only from persons who have previously submitted specific written comments regarding the proposed project during scoping. Issues raised in objections must be based on previously submitted written comments regarding the proposed project, unless based on new information arising after designated opportunities.
Written objections, including any attachments, must be sent via regular mail, fax, email, hand-delivery, or express delivery within 45 days following the publication date of this legal notice in the Casper Star-Tribune to: Nora Rasure, Objection Reviewing Officer, 324 25th Street, Ogden, UT 84401 or the email address for filing objections: objections-intermtn-regional-office@usad.gov (36 CFR 218.7)
Paper copies of the FEIS and draft ROD documents are available for public viewing during normal business hours at the Front Desk of the Bridger-Teton Pinedale Ranger District at 29 East Fremont Lake Road in Pinedale, WY. Copies are also available by contacting Chad Hayward, Interdisciplinary Team leader at 307-276-3375 or chad.hayward@usda.gov
To receive news from the Bridger-Teton National Forest, you can self-subscribe to our mailing list by following this link https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/btnf/home. In the center of the page enter your email address and then submit the request. You will then be able to choose what news release topics you wish to receive.
Pinedale area 2019 Fall Hunting forecast (posted 9/13/19)
Wyoming Game & Fish
Pronghorn (antelope)
In the Pinedale Region, the northern portion of the Sublette antelope herd includes hunt areas 87- 91. Population estimates for this herd are below desired levels generally due to harsh winters in 2010-2011 and again during 2016-2017. The 2018 fawn ratio was 55:100, below the previous 5- year average (2013-2017) of 65:100, while the total buck: 100 doe ratio of 57:100 was near the previous 5-year average of 56:100. This pronghorn population grew slightly during mild winter conditions from 2014-2016, experienced above average mortality during the 2016-2017 winter, exhibited increased survival during the mild 2017-2018 winter, but above average temperatures and the very dry conditions during the summer of 2018 moderated population recovery.
Mortalities resulting from the 2018-2019 winter are unknown at this time, but have the potential to be above average given high snow loads in the winter ranges of this herd. For the 2019 hunting season, there are no changes in the Pinedale Region. Although it remains difficult to draw an antelope license, those that do draw should experience high success rates.
Deer
Portions of two mule deer herds are managed in the Pinedale Region: the Sublette and Wyoming Range herds. Both are large populations with special management strategies designed to provide high quality hunting opportunities, older age class deer and high buck:100 doe ratios (30-45:100). For the Sublette herd, this population decreased below the post-hunt population objective in 2004 following significant winter losses when fawn mortality was estimated at 75% and adult mortality 2019 Statewide Fall Hunting Forecast – Page 11 at 20%, and has remained below desired population objective levels since that time. Despite improved spring moisture and improved shrub productivity from 2009 to 2011, deer losses were extreme from the 2010-2011 winter, with an estimated 70% fawn loss. Dry conditions during 2012 and 2013 resulted in poor production on winter habitats followed by improved moisture and forage production in 2014 and 2015. Good fawn survival during 2014-2016 resulted in population growth, but losses during the 2016-2017 were again extreme. Despite a mild winter and excellent fawn survival during winter 2017-2018, snow depths on Sublette deer winter ranges during 2018-2019 were considerable.
Change in ratio surveys conducted in April of 2019 indicated about 50% of the fawns were lost during winter. Adult survival estimates of telemetered Sublette deer from ongoing research with the University of Wyoming indicated 76% survival, with some mortalities occurring as late as May. The goal of the 2019 hunting season for the Sublette mule deer herd (hunt areas 130, 131, 138- 142, 146, 150-156, 162) is to minimize buck harvest to maintain postseason buck:doe ratios above 30:100, while still allowing hunting opportunity. Maintaining the current nonresident quota at 600 licenses, coupled with a short hunting season and antler point restrictions (3 points or more) for a third year in a row should help achieve these goals. General license seasons are proposed to run from September 15-October 6, closing on the first Sunday of October. The Wyoming Range deer herd (hunt areas 134, 135,143-145) also suffered heavy losses during the winter of 2016-2017, with documented losses of all radio-collared fawns and 35% of telemetered adult does, equating to an over-winter loss of approximately 40% of the entire deer herd.
Conversely, the winter of 2017-2018 was exceptionally mild and allowed increased fawn survival. However, the winter of 2018-2019 was also severe, but impacted mule deer wintering on the more southern ranges (Evanston-Cokeville) greater than winter ranges near LaBarge.
Change in ratio surveys conducted in April 2019 indicated a loss of nearly 30% of fawns for the entire herd, but a 70% loss in hunt area 134 compared to only a 13% loss in hunt area 143. The impact of the 2016-2017 winter was seen in December 2017 post season surveys, which indicated that fawn production and survival was low with only 54 fawns:100 does. In 2018, fawn:doe ratios improved slightly to 60 fawns:100 does, but remain lower than the previous fiveyear average (2013-2017) of 64 fawns:100 does. Yearling buck:doe ratios improved from 5:100 in 2017 to 12:100 in 2018 reflecting increased survival. Although adult buck:doe ratios dropped to 29:100 in 2017, they bumped up to 30:100 in 2018, within management objectives.
The southern portion of the Wyoming Range herd will offer 13 days of antlered deer hunting in hunt areas 134 and 135, allowing hunters to take antlered mule deer with three points or more on either antler or any white-tailed deer. General license hunting opportunity for antlered mule deer will run from September 15-October 6 for hunt areas 142-145. In hunt area 145, a total of 50 Limited quota Type 3 licenses valid for any white-tailed deer will be in place from November 1- November 15, and unused Type 3 licenses valid for antlerless white-tailed deer will continue from November 16-January 31. Region G and Region H nonresident deer quotas will remain at 400 and 600 licenses, respectively. Conservative nonresident quotas combined with a short general license seasons for all hunters will help meet the "special" management criteria of maintaining at least 30 bucks:100 does and maintain quality bucks in the population.
Elk
There are 4 elk herds managed in this region: Hoback, Pinedale, Piney and Upper Green. Liberal seasons have been in place for several years and are designed to move populations down toward objective levels, while maintaining at least 15 bulls:100 cows in the post-hunt populations. All herds met bull ratio objectives, ranging from 19 bulls:100 cows in the Hoback herd to 29 bulls:100 cows in the Upper Green River herd. Elk attendance was average to high on most feedgrounds in the Pinedale Region, a result of increased snowloads in most locations during the 2018-2019 winter. Calf:cow ratios averaged 32:100 among the four herds, ranging from 30:100 in the Pinedale herd to 39:100 in the Hoback elk herd. Elk hunter harvest in 2018 was slightly lower in most Pinedale Region elk herds due to warmer than average conditions during fall and the late arrival of snow. The Piney elk herd is currently within the established population objective after numerous years of liberal seasons to keep the herd from growing. Liberal seasons are again planned for the 2019 hunting season. Hunt areas 92 and 94 will open October 1 for limited quota type 6 cow or calf only hunting and extend to November 23. These licenses will extend to the end of January for a portion of hunt area 92. A type 7 cow or calf only license will allow hunters to take advantage of the month of November to harvest an elk north of Middle Piney Creek in hunt area 94. There will be a total of 800 type 6 cow or calf licenses available in hunt areas 92 and 94 and seasons will run through November 23 to reduce elk numbers. Elk numbers in the Pinedale herd (hunt areas 97 and 98) have been very stable in recent years and remain within the established population objective. Hunting seasons have been designed to increase antlerless harvest and lower population levels. Hunter success in the Pinedale elk herd remains to be among the highest in the region, with an overall 33% success rate. The 2019 seasons are again designed to target antlerless elk and lower population levels. The 2019 hunting season in the Hoback herd will offer general license any elk hunting through October 31 in hunt areas 86 and 87. This herd is being managed to provide recreational opportunities while maintaining 15 bull:100 cow ratios. An increase in the number of elk wintering 2019 Statewide Fall Hunting Forecast – Page 18 in the northern portion of hunt area 87 will allow for simplified regulations in 2019; all of hunt area 87 will be open for general license hunters for antlerless elk November 1-5. With stable elk numbers in the Upper Green River herd the past two years, 2019 hunting seasons will continue expanded antlerless elk hunting opportunities first implemented in 2017, specifically increases in Type 6 licenses and season length in hunt area 96. This herd is slightly above the stated objective of 2500 elk, and is managed with a combination of general and limited quota licenses to meet management objectives. Elk hunters with 96 type 1 and 6 licenses can pursue antlerless elk through the end of November in hunt area 96.
Moose
2019 Statewide Fall Hunting Forecast – Page 21 The Pinedale Region manages the majority of the Sublette Moose herd unit which is managed under a ‘special’ management strategy to provide recreational opportunities and maintain a harvest age of 4 years for bulls to maintain trophy harvest opportunities. This herd has a winter trend count objective of 1,500 moose, and the population has been stable to slightly increasing since 2006. The 2018 trend count was 1,210 moose, similar to the previous 5-year average trend counts of 1,159 animals and below the desired objective of 1,500 moose. The 2019 seasons are designed to maintain quality bull ratios (+50:100) while encouraging the population to grow. Due to concerns over the availability of older age class bulls in hunt area 3 and hunter opportunity complications created by the boundary between areas 3 and 4 boundary, hunt area 3 and 4 license holders were allowed to hunt either area in 2018 with 5 fewer total moose licenses. These area licenses will again be offered that opportunity in 2019.
Bighorn Sheep
The Darby Mountain sheep herd and a portion of the Whiskey Mountain herd are managed by Pinedale regional personnel. In 2016, the Darby Mountain herd (hunt area 24) was opened for the first time since the season was closed after the 2011 hunting season. In 2019, area 24 will again be open with one license for any ram. Continued population declines in the Whiskey herd prompted another reduction in hunt area 8. A total of 8 licenses will be offered in 2019, compared to 12 licenses in 2017 and 10 offered in 2018. In 2016, hunt areas 8 and 23 were combined to create the new area 8, and the season length was extended to October 31 (September 1–October 31) to provide additional hunter opportunity.
Upland Game Birds – Small Game
Sage grouse seasons will again run later in September in an attempt to reduce the vulnerability of hens with broods. In 2018, the season for dusky (blue) and ruffed grouse was extended from November 30 to December 31. In years with later than average onset of snow, access to the forested habitats of these gamebirds provides additional time afield for upland enthusiasts and the season structure will remain the same in 2019. Hunters will need to be mindful of winter range closures in some areas that begin in November and December. There is a healthy population of snowshoe hares and cottontail rabbits within the Region, and the season has been extended to March 31 to allow for more hunting opportunities in late winter. However, several areas of the Bridger Teton National Forest are closed to winter access beginning in November and December and hunters should check with the Bridger Teton National Forest for details of their winter travel plan.
Related Links:
Wyoming Statewide Game Forecast
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