Blog Archives - The WYldlife Fund

Breaking Ground: HWY 189 Wildlife Crossing is Underway

It won’t be long before Wyoming celebrates the completion of its newest major wildlife crossing, south of Kemmerer! This project is being made possible by a $24.3 million grant from the Federal Highway Administration, $4.2 million in WYDOT formula funds, and $8.8 million from 15 different partners and nonprofits, including over $6 million from the Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust. The WYldlife Fund is also thrilled to have contributed over $900,000 to this important work, thanks to supporters like you! We are truly grateful to each of those listed below, whose generosity made this private gift possible. The U.S. Highway 189 Kemmerer South Wildlife Crossing Project officially broke ground earlier this month. Completion is expected in October 2027.

Each year, an average of 80 deer-vehicle collisions are reported annually along 189 – and the actual number is likely much higher when considering unreported incidents. The new crossing, located around mile marker 12.8 south of Kemmerer, is projected to reduce collisions by 80 – 90%. This is a win not only for drivers but also for the Carter Lease pronghorn herd and the Wyoming Range and Uinta deer herds that rely on this corridor.

South Kemmerer has long been identified as a priority zone by Wyoming Game and Fish, especially given the anticipated development and increased traffic from the planned nuclear power facility in the area. Once complete, the project will include seven underpasses, one overpass, and fencing along a 30 mile stretch of highway, dramatically improving safety for both wildlife and motorists.

While the new crossings themselves deserve a celebration, the collaboration that made them possible warrants equal recognition. The WYldlife Fund is proud to help conserve wildlife, reduce collisions, and connect landscapes across Wyoming, but we’re not the only player in the game. Funding for this project required teamwork by a wide array of stakeholders from many walks of life, and it’s through partnerships like these that we can continue to conserve wildlife, protect livelihoods, and build a brighter future together.

Thank you to every supporter who made this possible!

First Interstate Bank, Genesis Alkali Wyoming LP, Golf For Wildlife Supporters, Commissioner Mark Jolovich, Knobloch Family Foundation, Mule Deer Foundation, Muley Fanatic Foundation, Muley Fanatic Foundation-Blue Ridge Chapter, NextEra Energy Foundation, Rocky Mountain Power, SOS Well Services, Spire Storage, TC Soda Holdings Inc. (Project West), TerraPower, The WYldlife Fund, Williams, WYldlife For Tomorrow & Wyoming Wildlife Federation

Moving Forward – Phase Two of The Upper Sweetwater Fence Initiative

The Red Desert Fence Initiative continues to gain momentum with the launch of Phase 2, a critical step toward improving habitat connectivity and reducing wildlife barriers in Wyoming’s iconic Red Desert.

Building on the success of Phase 1, which began with the conversion of 15 miles of outdated woven wire fencing near South Pass, Phase 2 will expand these efforts in the northern Red Desert along the Sweetwater River corridor. This area is a vital intersection for several key species, including the Sublette pronghorn herd, mule deer, moose, elk, and sage grouse.

The fences in this region, many of which are deteriorating and topped with barbed wire, pose significant challenges to wildlife. GPS collar data from pronghorn clearly demonstrate that traditional fencing creates barriers to movement. In some areas, animals have gone to great lengths to bypass troublesome fences, digging beneath or pushing wires down to gain passage. Migration is already inherently dangerous, and poor fence conditions only increase the risk of injury or entanglement.

The goals of Phase 2 mirror those of the initial phase: replace harmful woven wire with wildlife-friendly fencing that includes barbless configurations, improved spacing, and strategic crossings. These upgrades will reduce mortality and improve ease of movement for wildlife in the area.

This major conservation effort is being led by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and WYldlife for Tomorrow is proud to pledge $10,000 in support. This contribution comes straight from the proceeds of the much-loved Pronghorn Pilsner. A heartfelt thanks goes to Wind River Brewing, one of our steadfast and valued partners, for making this possible! Since teaming up with WYldlife for Tomorrow, Wind River’s Pronghorn Pilsner has become their best selling brew – proving once again that successful business and impactful conservation can go hand in hand.

WYldlife for Tomorrow and Old Bill’s

WYldlife for Tomorrow is excited to once again take part in the Old Bill’s Fun Run in Jackson, Wyoming!

For those who aren’t familiar, Old Bill’s is one of the most successful community fundraising events in the nation. Each year, it supports nonprofits doing vital work throughout Teton County. While the event culminates in a lively community race and celebration on September 6, the true impact happens during the Giving Season, running from August 15 through September 6.

During this four-week window, any donation to WYldlife for Tomorrow will be matched by the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole—typically by around 50%, up to $30,000!

This year, WYldlife for Tomorrow will be putting money on the ground for a variety of conservation projects that directly impact Teton County wildlife. These projects include helping facilitate big game movement across the landscape, funding meaningful wildlife research, and supporting on-the-ground habitat improvement projects.

Are you a business owner looking to make an even bigger impact?
Join us for the first annual Observe to Conserve campaign, timed to coincide with Old Bill’s Giving Season – taking place the week of August 31 and culminating on National Wildlife Day, September 4.

This statewide initiative brings together wildlife-focused businesses—tour guides, float companies, photographers, dude ranches, and more—in a collaborative effort to raise awareness and support for conservation projects right here in Wyoming. By encouraging guests to give, your business can help protect the wild places they’ve come to experience—with every donation amplified by Old Bill’s matching funds.

From August 15 to September 6, every dollar goes further. And it takes all of us—individuals, businesses, and communities—to ensure Wyoming’s wildlife and wild places are protected for generations to come.

As a program of The WYldlife Fund, nonprofit partner of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, we’re uniquely positioned to support priority, boots-on-the-ground conservation work that makes a real difference. And there’s no better time for you to support these critical projects than in the coming weeks!

Conservation Never Tasted So Sweet

For nearly a century, the Jackson Drug building has anchored the northwest corner of Town Square in Jackson, Wyoming — a living relic of small-town charm. Ownership shifted hands a few times over the years and, sadly, its cherished role as a bustling soda fountain came to a pause in 2001 much to the dismay of tourists and locals alike.

But in 2010, the story began its full circle journey when the building returned to its original proprietors — the Gill family. Sisters Jessica and Nikki Gill, born and raised in Jackson, were eager to breathe new life into the iconic establishment. With a deep-rooted love for their hometown and a shared commitment to preserving its character, the sisters set out to restore Jackson Drug to its former glory.

Today, Jackson Drug is enjoying a vibrant revival. Jessica and Nikki have struck a balance between a nostalgic escape to simpler times and a refreshed menu that satisfies modern tastebuds. It’s more than a restaurant—it’s a step back in time and a celebration of what makes Jackson special.

For the Gill sisters, conservation isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a way of life. They know that protecting Wyoming’s wildlife, wide-open spaces, and natural heritage is essential. That’s why they’ve found a delicious way to leverage their newfound Town Square success to support what they care about most.

Enter Moose Tracks ice cream: a blend of Oreos, chocolate caramel bites, and a rich caramel swirl folded into a creamy vanilla base. A portion of proceeds from every scoop sold is donated to WYldlife for Tomorrow which in turn helps fund priority conservation projects across the state as identified by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. This is dessert with a purpose!

Like all of WYldlife for Tomorrow’s collaborations, this partnership with Jackson Drug is rooted in a shared passion for conserving wild Wyoming. It’s about meeting businesses where their strengths lie — in this case, in a scoop of handcrafted ice cream, and using those strengths to give back to the wild places and wild things we all cherish.

So here’s to Jessica and Nikki, for reviving a community treasure and more recently turning it into a beacon for conservation through collaboration with WYldlife for Tomorrow. Thank you for proving that conservation is fun, rewarding, and delicious.

Make ours a double scoop.

Back on Tap: A Conservation Collaboration Returns!

Few things bring us more joy than raising a cold beer in support of conservation—and as of this April, we’re thrilled to have another brew to toast with again. Our longtime friends and partners at Altitude Chophouse and Brewery are back on board with WYldlife for Tomorrow, and we couldn’t be more excited to continue this meaningful collaboration!

A Bit About Altitude

Altitude Chophouse and Brewery has been a beloved Laramie staple since 1999, founded by Karen Robillard and Greg Smith with a vision of blending a relaxed Western vibe with elevated food and drink. Over the past 25 years, Altitude has earned dozens of local, regional, and national awards for its expertly crafted beers. With head brewer Sean Minichiello at the helm, Karen and her team have built a reputation for brewing clean, consistent, and creative beers—and now, once again, we can add conservation-minded to that list.

WYldlife for Tomorrow and Altitude

Our partnership with Altitude began in 2023, when Karen and Sean launched the WYld Amber Ale in honor of WYldlife for Tomorrow. The label, designed by University of Wyoming graduate student Inna Willis, marked the start of a creative collaboration that not only celebrated local talent but also deepened our connection with UW. In many ways, that first beer helped spark our growing series of cobranded conservation products—from coffee and ice cream to hotel rooms and, yes, more beer.

Fast forward two years, and we’re thrilled to build on that momentum with some familiar faces. On April 25th, Karen unveiled a brand-new conservation-minded brew: the WYld Blonde Ale. Sean is still leading the brewing efforts with the help of Assistant Brewer Jovi Inman, and Inna returned to design another stunning label—this time featuring a striking fox illustration. Light, crisp, and perfect for summer, the WYld Blonde Ale is a refreshing addition to our shared mission.

Drink Beer, Support Wildlife

If you missed the launch party, don’t worry—you can still enjoy the WYld Blonde Ale on tap or in a to-go crowler at Altitude Chophouse and Brewery in Laramie. Just like the WYld Amber Ale before it, $1 from every pint sold supports WYldlife for Tomorrow and our on-the-ground efforts to protect Wyoming’s wildlife and wild places.

So here’s to great beer, great people, and an even greater cause. Join us in raising a glass to this renewed partnership—and to the animals and landscapes that make Wyoming wild.

Unwired Documentary Highlights Collaboration as a Cornerstone of Conservation

For those following recent conservation successes in Wyoming, the Red Desert likely rings a bell.

At the heart of Wyoming’s legendary pronghorn migration route and home to vital winter range, the Red Desert has long captured the attention of biologists seeking to safeguard the future of this iconic species.

Last year marked a major conservation milestone for Wyoming’s pronghorn, and the University of Wyoming’s new documentary, Unwired—released on April 30—tells the story of how collaboration drove a groundbreaking achievement for the species.

For more than 70 years, biologists have documented the hardships pronghorn face during winter migration, especially in severe winters. Highways and fences pose major threats, with exclusionary fencing proving particularly deadly during brutal winter seasons like 2022–23.

The Sublette pronghorn herd lost 43% of its population – or roughly 4,000 animals – during that notably harsh winter. A major factor? Inaccessible winter habitat in the Red Desert due to fencing that blocks critical winter range. Unwired focuses on a partnership between local rancher Tom Chant and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department to find a solution to allow for his ranch to fully operate while promoting pronghorn winter survival.

Last summer, boots hit the ground and shovels hit the dirt as a diverse coalition of partners worked side by side to remove exclusionary fencing and replace it with a wildlife-friendly alternative. These new fences allow pronghorn—poor jumpers—to crawl underneath, while still containing cattle and horses. In just 45 days, 23 miles of fencing were replaced, reconnecting 18,000 acres of prime winter range that had been inaccessible to pronghorn for 75 years.

This story, so beautifully outlined in Unwired, was largely funded by The Knobloch Family Foundation, Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust, and The WYldlife Fund. The short film itself – winner of The Best Film about Wyoming Award at the Wild and Working Lands Film Festival – can be viewed here.

While the 18,000 acres celebrated in Unwired is a huge success, at least 94,000 acres of critical habitat in the Red Desert remain inaccessible due to more than 50 miles of exclusionary fencing. WYldlife for Tomorrow and WYldlife Fund are actively raising support to continue this important work through the Red Desert Fence Initiative, with phase two set to begin this summer with the additional 15 miles of fence conversion.

Applications now open for the 2025 Inspire A Kid Camps at the Little Jennie Ranch

Generous contributions help to fund 23 miles of wildlife-friendly fencing in the Red Desert

Partnership to Conserve Big Game Habitat in Wyoming

December 31st, 2024

The Pooled Migration Fund and USDA-State of Wyoming Big Game Program in Wyoming

2024_Partnership_to_Conserve_Big Game Habitat

As we close out the year, we’d like to take a moment to reflect on the significant progress made for big game conservation in key migration corridors across Wyoming. This achievement is thanks to the USDA-State of Wyoming’s Big Game Program and the support provided by our Pooled Migration Fund (PMF).

In October 2022, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack and Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon signed an agreement that uses diverse Farm Bill programs and state expertise and resources to support voluntary conservation of private working lands, Tribal lands, and migratory big game populations in Wyoming.

The program emphasizes a commitment to voluntary, incentive-based approaches; identifies and elevates the critical role of private, working lands; and stresses the importance of supporting state, Tribal, and landowners to advance their conservation priorities.

The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, BAND Foundation, The Volgenau Foundation, Wilburforce Foundation, Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund, Knobloch Family Foundation, NextEra Energy Foundation, and Dominion Energy have all made significant investments to establish and sustain the PMF. The PMF operates under The WYldlife Fund and aims to support and enhance the Big Game Program initiated by the USDA and the State of Wyoming.

The PMF has invested over $1.5 million to directly support the USDA-State of Wyoming Big Game Program. These investments have strengthened critical capacity-building roles with partner NGOs, facilitating connections between producers, Tribal partners, and conservation funding opportunities. Additionally, these funds have been used to implement impactful on-the-ground conservation projects, including invasive annual grass treatments and wildlife-friendly fence modifications.

The WYldlife Fund is excited to report significant progress through this program, with the PMF playing a key role in its successful implementation. Click the link below to learn more about the advancements made for Wyoming’s wildlife.

2024_Partnership_to_Conserve_Big Game Habitat

Building on success: WYldlife for Tomorrow’s vision for the new year

As we look back on 2024, it’s clear that WYldlife for Tomorrow, a program of The WYldlife Fund, has made significant strides toward achieving its mission. With a dedicated team, growing visibility, and expanding partnerships, we are excited to leverage this momentum and build on the successes of the past year. As we approach 2025, we are committed to setting ambitious goals that will help us continue to conserve Wyoming’s wildlife and their habitats. The beginning of a new year offers the perfect opportunity to reflect on our priorities, plan for the future, and renew our dedication to the conservation of Wyoming’s invaluable wildlife. Here’s a glimpse into our key goals for the year ahead!

Promote Sustainable Ecotourism

Wyoming’s wildlife brings in thousands of visitors each year — visitors who explore our parks, stay in our hotels, eat in our restaurants, enjoy our recreation services and shop in our communities. The state’s economy depends on tourism, and tourism depends on our wildlife. In 2025, WYldlife for Tomorrow will continue to inspire businesses that rely on Wyoming’s natural beauty to invest in meaningful conservation initiatives. Our goal is to foster partnerships that encourage businesses to give back to the land and wildlife that support their success, ultimately promoting sustainable ecotourism practices that protect Wyoming’s wildlife for generations to come.

Strengthen Community Engagement

As we move into 2025, our team will continue to focus on building relationships with Wyoming businesses, communities, foundations and other conservation organizations to make a difference for wildlife. Together, we can create lasting, positive change for wildlife and help fund priority conservation projects across the state. Our work will focus on increasing awareness while ensuring that local communities and businesses have an avenue to become actively engaged in the process. When we unite as a state, we can amplify our impact and achieve real, tangible benefits for wildlife and habitat conservation.

Expand Representation Across the State

WYldlife for Tomorrow is a statewide initiative and, as such, we aim to ensure that all corners of Wyoming are represented in our efforts. Our wildlife is a shared resource, and everyone across the state has a stake in conservation. In 2025, we plan to broaden our outreach and aim to build more cobranded partnerships with local businesses. These partnerships will strengthen our program’s visibility and demonstrate how businesses, large and small, can benefit from supporting wildlife conservation efforts. If you know of a business in your area that could align with our mission, we invite you to get in touch. Together, we can forge new collaborations that will help cement WYldlife for Tomorrow as a statewide initiative.

Looking Ahead with Gratitude and Purpose

As we reflect on the accomplishments of 2024, there is much to be thankful for at WYldlife for Tomorrow. However, our focus is always forward. With the new year on the horizon, we are excited to dive into the work that will help us reach our 2025 goals. We are deeply grateful for the ongoing support of our partners, donors, and community members, and we look forward to continuing this important journey together. Through collaboration and dedication, we will ensure that Wyoming’s wildlife and habitats remain healthy, thriving, and protected for generations to come.

Let’s make 2025 the year we take our efforts to new heights, together!