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!

The WYld Room: A First-of-its-Kind Partnership with the Riviera Motor Lodge

The idea started just a couple of years ago at the Wyoming Governor’s Hospitality and Tourism Conference in Cheyenne. Kim Hytrek, General Manager of the Riviera Motor Lodge, stumbled upon the booth for WYldlife for Tomorrow – a signature program of The WYldlife Fund – and struck up a conversation with President Chris McBarnes. After learning about the program’s mission to pair business and tourism partners with wildlife conservation efforts, Kim left the conference with one thought: “This is something I really want to do.”

A champion of new and innovative ideas, Kim saw the opportunity to help protect the state she loves while promoting local business. A partnership with WYldlife for Tomorrow felt like a no brainer.

The Birth of an Idea

Upon returning to Saratoga, Kim began brainstorming with Riviera Motor Lodge Owner John Evans about creative ways to support wildlife conservation through WYldlife for Tomorrow. Shortly thereafter, the idea for The WYld Room was born.

John wanted to showcase the seasons, landscape, and wildlife of the Platte Valley, and what better way to do so than with a mural in one of the Riviera Motor Lodge rooms? The idea quickly took shape, and Kim and John reached out to local artist Lori Kostur to bring it to life.

Lori, a Wyoming resident for over thirty years and a Saratoga local for the past decade, was the perfect fit. She was eager to accept the challenge: “Wyoming is all about the wildlife and the landscape. People come for that reason, and if you’re not promoting that or preserving it you’re going to lose it. It’s the most important thing we have going in Wyoming.

Execution of the Plan

The vision for The WYld Room was simple: create a mural that would cover an entire wall, celebrating Wyoming’s wildlife and natural beauty. After three weeks of hard work Lori’s stunning wildlife mural was complete, transforming the room into an immersive experience. Now, it’s all about bringing in the visitors. For Kim, “It’s important to create a transformational experience for the guests. They could walk into this room and stare at the mural all night.”

More than that, however, “It’s important to educate about natural resources. Of course we want to drive reservations and support funding for The WYldlife Fund as well,” says Hytrek.

Through this innovative partnership, guests who reserve The WYld Room at the Riviera Motor Lodge can feel good knowing that a percentage of their room fee will be donated to WYldlife for Tomorrow – a signature program of The WYldlife Fund – and directly support conservation efforts in Wyoming.

Chris McBarnes, President of The WYldlife Fund, is quick to acknowledge the significance of the partnership: “Businesses like the Riviera Motor Lodge stepping forward to support sustainable wildlife conservation is a really big deal.”

About the Riviera Motor Lodge

The Riviera Motor Lodge was purchased by the Evans family in 2022. Born and raised in Saratoga, the Evans siblings are passionate about showcasing everything this beautiful region of Wyoming has to offer. Since acquiring the property, they have been busy remodeling each of their 40 guest rooms with the final renovations scheduled for completion this winter. The WYld Room, which features a comfortable king bed and scenic views of the North Platte River, is one of many highlights of the newly refurbished lodge.

In addition to room upgrades, the Riviera has invested in one of its most popular features – the Riverfront Lawn. “As we’ve grown, we’ve come to learn that the backyard is one of guests’ most favorite parts of staying with us,” notes General Manager Kim Hytrek. Located on the banks of the North Platte River, the lawn is the perfect spot to host a wedding, event, or simply enjoy a sunset by the campfire. As an added bonus, complimentary bicycles and snowshoes are available for all guests to use during their stay.

DSC of Wyoming Contributes $41,000 to The Pronghorn Fund

Dallas Safari Club of Wyoming Contributes $41,000 to The Pronghorn Fund

Hunting and Conservation Group Augments The WYldLife Fund’s Latest Initiative

Casper, Wyoming, November 2024 — DSC of Wyoming, a 501(c)3 Wyoming nonprofit and chapter of the Dallas Safari Club, has added over forty thousand dollars to The Pronghorn Fund, a growing endowment inspired by the extraordinary contributions of Rich and Mary Guenzel.

“DSC of Wyoming board members Patrick Ginder and Jamie Moralez immediately understood the purpose and importance of The Pronghorn Fund,” says President Geoffrey Smith. “Our entire board agreed that the new endowment was a leap forward in further understanding, conservation, and support of this western icon.” “Moreover,” states Smith, “parent foundation The WYldLife Fund has wisely constructed The Pronghorn Fund as a restricted endowment. This means its resources will be focused on the Pronghorn, and administered to be a persistent asset for the species.”

The WYldLife Fund President Chris McBarnes comments, “The Pronghorn is a Wyoming crown jewel. We are sothankful for the trailblazers who have established and support The Pronghorn Fund.” Smith adds, “How often have we heard ‘just out for an antelope’? Turns out, the pronghorn isn’t actually an antelope, nor is it ‘just a’. I’ll save the surprise, but the reader will be a bit aghast when exploring the phrase ‘Pronghorn taxonomy’ through any Internet search.”

DSC of Wyoming is a 501(c)3 nonprofit affiliate and state chapter of Dallas Safari Club. The Mission of DSC of Wyoming is to advocate for hunting and fishing rights in the state of Wyoming, to support and encourage the engagement and education of youth, sportsmen and sportswomen, and to foster the conservation of our outdoor heritage for future generations.

To learn more about The Pronghorn Fund and how you can help support this iconic species in Wyoming, click here!

Wyoming summer camp tackles “brain drain” with nature

At the base of the Gros Ventre Mountains in western Wyoming, 17 boys recently spent a week immersed in nature, honing their outdoor skills and building leadership abilities. Part of the Inspire a Kid initiative, this free summer camp is designed for youth who might not otherwise have access to Wyoming’s wild spaces. Over the course of a week, campers engage in fly fishing, horseback riding, and even hauling hay bales—all while learning the importance of conservation.

For kids like 13-year-old Colten Christianson and 12-year-old Zach Cortez, the camp provides a thrilling blend of adventure and outdoor learning. Whether taking a dip in the icy sluice box to wake up or bonding over early-morning hot chocolate, their days are filled with teamwork and exploration. “It’s way better than coffee,” Cortez quips after an invigorating sluice shower.

But it’s not all fun and games. As the campers move hay bales or gather around the campfire, they also gain a deeper appreciation for Wyoming’s public lands, which cover more than half of the state. Many, like 15-year-old William Johnston from Newark, New Jersey, leave the camp with a newfound love for the outdoors—and some even consider future careers in conservation.

Chris McBarnes, who leads the camp, hopes this experience helps keep Wyoming’s youth connected to the state. With its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, Wyoming needs the next generation of leaders to safeguard its natural beauty and tackle ongoing conservation challenges.

To listen to the full story or read a transcript of the story, please click here.

University of Wyoming Recognizes Taylor Phillips – WYldlife Fund Board Member – with Conservation Award

In a state full of passionate conservationists and wildlife lovers, two were individually honored on the evening of Friday September 13th in Laramie. With the sun shining down on the University of Wyoming’s Berry Biodiversity Conservation Center, supporters gathered inside to celebrate Charles Preston and Taylor Phillips as they each received recognition for their work in supporting biodiversity conservation, appreciation, and understanding in The Cowboy State.

UW’s Biodiversity Institute proudly presented Phillips with the Contributions to Biodiversity Conservation Award in large part due to his work establishing WYldlife for Tomorrow – a signature program of The WYldlife Fund which, in turn, is the nonprofit partner to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Taylor started WYldlife for Tomorrow in 2021 with the goal of inspiring all that benefit from Wyoming’s recreation and travel and tourism economy – largely driven by the state’s public lands and abundant wildlife – to get involved in supporting wildlife conservation efforts statewide. To date, WYldlife For Tomorrow has raised more than $400,000 through private donations and business partnerships and collaborations. This money has gone on to support wildlife highway crossings, habitat restoration, and research through management by the WYldlife Fund and in support of Wyoming Game and Fish. As Phillips’ initiative continues to grow, state conservation and biodiversity research projects are sure to grow right along with it.

However, Taylor will be the first to tell you that this award would not be possible without the support of WYldlife For Tomorrow’s many generous donors. It takes a village to achieve ambitious statewide conservation goals, and the organization’s partners are an absolutely critical piece of the puzzle.

“I am incredibly honored and humbled to have been selected for this award. The work of WYldlife For Tomorrow would not have been possible without all of the support that the program and I have received from across the state,” says Phillips. “I feel like we are just getting started with the work of developing an additional funding mechanism to support wildlife.”

The Biodiversity Science and Conservation Awards are meant to “honor Wyoming-ites who have changed the landscape of conservation biology and biodiversity science,” notes Brett Addis – Associate Director of UW’s Biodiversity Institute.

In choosing Phillips from a large pool of other nominees Addis adds that “Taylor stood out because his approach to conservation is so innovative. Blending tourism with conservation is not like anything we’ve seen or awarded before.”

Collaboration and innovation will surely be critical for the future of conservation in The Cowboy State. However, with the dedicated work being led by folks like Phillips – and support from donors and partners alike – the future looks bright for wild Wyoming.

The Greater Yellowstone Coalition and the WYldlife Fund Partner to Raise $2.7 Million for Wyoming’s Highway 26 Wildlife Crossing Project

The Greater Yellowstone Coalition and the WYldlife Fund have teamed up to raise $2.7 million in donations to contribute to the non-federal, match requirement for the state’s application requesting more than $17 million in federal Wildlife Crossing Pilot Program dollars to keep people safe and wildlife alive along U.S. Highway 26 in Wyoming. This substantial fundraising effort will strengthen the state’s application as it competes for these highly competitive federal grant funds.

U.S. Highway 26 from Stoney Point to the Wind River Indian Reservation is the state of Wyoming’s top priority for wildlife crossings, with the wildlife crossing project location accounting for nearly three in four wildlife-vehicle collisions.

“Thousands of mule deer migrate between summer range near Grand Teton National Park and winter range at the Wind River Reservation each year. This project will make the highway safer for both wildlife and people, while allowing animals to reach their summer and winter ranges,” said Greater Yellowstone Coalition Executive Director Scott Christensen. “The support for this wildlife highway crossing project has been tremendous. I am thrilled at the way Greater Yellowstone Coalition’s supporters and partners stepped up to help fund an effort that will benefit wildlife and communities for years to come.”

The project partners for this new wildlife highway crossing infrastructure project are the Wyoming Department of Transportation, Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Wind River Tribes (Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho), WYldlife Fund, Greater Yellowstone Coalition, and Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust. The project is contingent upon a successful application to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

If awarded, the project will entail designing and building one wildlife overpass and four wildlife underpasses, enhancing five existing structures to improve wildlife movement, and installing about 18 miles of big game fencing as well as jump-outs and cattle guards in strategic locations.

“Wildlife crossings bring together those who are passionate about protecting wildlife,” said WYldlife Fund President Chris McBarnes. “In Wyoming, there are approximately 21 big-game collisions every day, totaling more than 7,656 wildlife vehicle collisions each year. More than 70 percent of these incidents involve mule deer. This pressing issue is why the WYldlife Fund is dedicated to securing crucial funding for the development of the Wind River to Grand Tetons Wildlife Crossing.”

The nonprofit partners had just 90 days to raise the matching funds required to submit a competitive application.

“The money raised for this project through partnerships reflects Wyoming’s passion for conserving our world-class wildlife,” said Angi Bruce, Wyoming Game and Fish Department Director. “This project is an investment that helps to preserve big game movement and save lives.”

“I’m hoping for a successful outcome for this worthy project,” said WYDOT Director Darin Westby. “This project is a win-win for highway safety and safe wildlife movement that will benefit our state and those who travel through it. This is also an exciting opportunity for WYDOT to work with our state and private partners on a project that has a lot of public support, and we are grateful to be a part of it.”

Wyoming has become a national leader in building wildlife crossings that keep people safe and wildlife alive. The state of Wyoming has committed over $5 million for the project should it be awarded the federal Wildlife Crossing Pilot Program dollars, along with the $2.7 raised by GYC and the WYldlife Fund.

In addition to the state of Wyoming, financial supporters of the project include: Anna Moscicki and Michael Kenney, Blue Ridge Chapter of the Muley Fanatic Foundation, Cook Family Giving Fund, Dubois Anglers & Wildlife Group, Dubois Outfitters Association, Ed and Estela Kynoch, Greater Yellowstone Coalition, Knobloch Family Foundation, Mule Deer Foundation, National Bighorn Sheep Center, Steve and Kathy Cooper, Steve Meadows: 49er Inn and Suites, Ten Country Chapter of the Muley Fanatic Foundation, The BAND Foundation, The Donald Slavik Family Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, The WYldlife Fund and Muley Fanatic Foundation’s Golf for Wildlife Outing, Tory and Meredith Taylor, Wilburforce Foundation, Wildlife Barrier Breakers, William Adam Sedlacek, WOW Weekend, WYldlife For Tomorrow, a signature program of The WYldlife Fund, and Wyoming Wildlife Federation.

WYldlife For Tomorrow Job Posting

Job Posting

The WYldlife Fund’s (The Fund) signature program WYldlife for Tomorrow (WFT) is complimenting the conservation funding paradigm with a new funding mechanism that allows businesses that depend on wildlife and Wyoming lands to contribute to a sustainable future for wildlife – and ourselves.

Title: Program Director (PD), WFT

Position structure (contractual or full-time) and compensation are negotiable based on individual qualifications.

Reports to: President

Location: Wyoming; office location to be approved by the President

Anticipated Start Date: November 1, 2024

Job Summary:

The PD will help oversee daily operations and provide strategic and tactical leadership for The Fund’s signature program WFT. The PD will consistently evaluate the landscape to find opportunities which will advance WFT. Primary duties will include strategic marketing and public awareness of WFT, donor (investor) cultivation and grant writing/reporting, investor management, managing WFT co-branded products, and overseeing all aspects of the WFT grants process which includes evaluating potential conservation projects to support. The PD will be expected to establish a self-sustaining position over time. Potential for professional growth to a higher level position as WFT and The Fund mature.

Reporting Responsibilities:

The PD will report to the President and maintain a close reporting relationship, enabling the President to lead The Fund and stay abreast of developments, problems, concerns, and successes.

Job Responsibilities:

Work closely with the President and Operations Manager to develop strategic and tactical goals for WYldlife For Tomorrow.
Work closely with the President and Operations Manager to handle and oversee daily administrative needs for WYldlife For Tomorrow.
Identify, develop, and maintain relationships with investors.
Help develop annual marketing strategy and maintain strong online and social media presence for WYldlife For Tomorrow.
Help plan and implement special events for WYldlife For Tomorrow
Perform other duties as assigned by the President.

Job Requirements:

A proven leader with strong strategic and tactical abilities who excels in program management, administrative skills, donor relationships and working cooperatively with a non-profit organization. Requires excellent verbal communication skills, strong writing skills, and exceptional self-presentation skills. A general knowledge of fish and wildlife conservation in Wyoming is important. Some travel required; drivers license and clean driving record required.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in business, public policy, environmental science, wildlife management, or related field is preferred
Working knowledge of non-profit administration and fundraising
Demonstrated success leading an issue-based program or campaign
Excellent communication and organizational skills; ability to work independently on a daily basis

About The Fund and WFT:

The Fund was founded in 2019 by the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission with a vision of working closely with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and stakeholders to conserve and enhance Wyoming’s wildlife resources. The Fund unites people to advance Wyoming wildlife habitat, research, and education. WFT has created an additional funding mechanism to support Wyoming’s wildlife by engaging businesses within Wyoming’s travel and tourism industry. Monies that are collected by WFT support common sense projects across Wyoming that benefit game and nongame species. We are seeking an energetic, motivated, self-starting leader who is passionate about Wyoming’s wildlife resources to take this signature program to the next level for current and future generations.

To learn more about the signature program and our organization, go to: thewyldlifefund.org and https://thewyldlifefund.org/wyldlife-for-tomorrow/.

To Apply: Email letter of interest, resume, and three references that are former employers, college professors, or prominent community citizens to: Chris McBarnes, President, The WYldlife Fund, at chris@thewyldlifefund.org. This vacancy announcement is open until filled. Please check in with Chris to get an update on the status of the process before submitting your application.

The WYldlife Fund provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

The Pooled Migration Fund: A Commitment to Wyoming’s Wildlife

The WYldlife Fund, in partnership with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD), is dedicated to the conservation of Wyoming’s wildlife and their habitats. Through the Pooled Migration Fund (PMF), this collaborative effort unites various stakeholders to protect and enhance the migratory habitats of Wyoming’s big game species. By leveraging resources from diverse Farm Bill programs and state expertise, the PMF supports voluntary conservation on private and Tribal lands, fostering a network of conservation efforts across Wyoming.

In 2022, a significant agreement was signed by USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack and Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon, highlighting Wyoming’s leadership in big game migration science and conservation. The PMF seeks proposals from a wide array of partners, including NGOs, state agencies, and land trusts, to expand conservation efforts and increase the impact on migratory habitats.

Earlier this year, The WYldlife Fund Board awarded funding to three pivotal projects, each of which addresses unique conservation challenges and opportunities across Wyoming. Here’s a closer look at these projects:

Photo courtesy of the Wyoming Game & Fish Department.

1. Carbon County Weed and Pest

Invasive weeds, particularly cheatgrass, pose a significant threat to native rangelands and wildlife habitats in Carbon County. Cheatgrass outcompetes native plant species, creating dense, monotypic stands that offer little nutritional value to wildlife such as mule deer, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, elk, and sage-grouse.

To address this issue, the Carbon County Weed and Pest (CCWP), in partnership with private, state, and federal entities, has embarked on an extensive project to control and manage cheatgrass proliferation. Through the PMF, The WYldlife Fund awarded $100,000 to this initiative, which aims to protect and restore crucial wildlife habitats across approximately 8,900 acres of land.

The primary treatment method involves aerially applying Indaziflam (Rejuvra) using rotor-wing aircraft at a rate of 5 ounces per acre. Indaziflam has been shown to provide longer-term control of cheatgrass compared to previous treatments like Imazapic (Plateau), which only offers control for about 2-3 years. This treatment is critical in maintaining the health and diversity of native plant communities, thereby supporting higher-quality wildlife habitats.

To accurately map cheatgrass cover, CCWP uses high-resolution satellite imagery from Planet, coupled with ground-truth data. This collaboration enhances monitoring precision, enabling effective management of cheatgrass proliferation.

Reese Irvine, project supervisor, said in a statement, “Carbon County Weed and Pest is excited to partner withThe WYldlife Fund to treat cheatgrass in the Platte Valley. These treatments are taking place in mule deer migration corridors, crucial winter range, and sage-grouse core areas. With the support from The WYldlife Fund, we will be able to treat an additional 1,458 acres of these crucial habitats!”

CCWP and its partners are committed to the long-term success of this project. Continuous monitoring efforts will ensure that if infestations are identified outside previously treated areas, new treatments can be implemented to protect past efforts and further improve habitat conditions. This adaptive management approach ensures that the project can respond dynamically to emerging challenges and opportunities, enhancing its overall impact on the ecosystem.

2. Little Snake River Conservation District

The Little Snake River Conservation District is spearheading a project focused on habitat improvement through juniper removal and shrub treatments. This initiative is part of a long-term effort to enhance the habitat of the Baggs Mule Deer Herd, benefiting mule deer, sage-grouse, and other big game species.

Scheduled for 2024, the project will involve mechanical treatments to remove juniper trees and improve aspen and mixed mountain shrub habitats across 1,200 acres. These treatments will create diverse age classes and species, providing nutritious forage and reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfires. The project also aims to improve habitat quality in crucial winter ranges and stopover sites within designated migration corridors.

“Mule deer numbers are down west wide and after the catastrophic winter kill of 2023 in the Baggs Herd unit, the population hit rock bottom,” said Larry Hicks, Natural Resource Coordinator for the Little Snake River Conservation District. “If we are going to restore this iconic herd back to its 20,000-head strong objective, it’s going to require high quality habitat. It is an all hands on deck approach across all land ownership patterns, including private, state, BLM, and USFS administered lands to restore and enhance crucial habitats and maintain critical migration corridors. The WYldlife Fund has joined a comprehensive landscape scale habitat restoration project and is providing significant funding with other partners to accomplish the goals of restoring this iconic mule deer herd back to its prominence as one of the greatest mule deer herds in the west. Without the support of the WYldlife Fund and the other partners, this effort would not be possible.”

The PMF awarded $75,000 to this initiative, which will continue to monitor and treat areas on a five-year basis.

Mule deer in Ten Sleep, June 2017. Photo by Erin Bormett, Wyoming Game & Fish Department.

3. Sublette County Wildlife Friendly Fence Program

Western Wyoming, a stronghold for big game and sage-grouse, faces challenges from landscape fragmentation due to human population growth. One significant barrier to wildlife movement is traditional fencing, which can entangle and injure animals.

To mitigate these risks, the WGFD, in collaboration with local livestock producers, is converting up to 40 miles of fence to wildlife-friendly specifications. These modifications include lowering fence heights, increasing wire spacing, and creating crossing structures that allow safe passage for pronghorn and mule deer. This project, spread over three years (2024-2027), aims to enhance migration corridors and reduce wildlife injuries, contributing to the long-term sustainability of these species.

Of this project, Troy Fiessler, Terrestrial Habitat Biologist with WGFD, said, “While fencing is an essential component of our landscape, it can create severe hazards for wildlife from impeding seasonal migrations to restricting access to key habitats. Located within Sublette County, the Upper Green Fence Initiative strives to provide knowledgeable landowner consultation and more effectively focus implementation of wildlife-friendly fences in areas that provide the greatest benefit to wildlife. With the added support of The WYldlife Fund’s Pooled Migration Funds, our initiative is able to continue mitigating the risks posed by fences through modifications, conversions and removals across dozens of additional miles.”

A total of $75,000 from the PMF was awarded to this project. A well-maintained fence has an expected lifetime of at least 20 years, if not longer. All landowners who participate in this project using PMF funds have agreed to maintain their proposed fences at wildlife-friendly standards for a minimum of 20 years, promising safe passage for wildlife for at least two decades!

Photo courtesy of the Wyoming Game & Fish Department.

The Pooled Migration Fund exemplifies the power of collaboration in wildlife conservation. By addressing critical challenges like invasive species, habitat degradation, and landscape fragmentation, the PMF-funded projects are making a tangible difference in preserving Wyoming’s rich wildlife heritage. Through continued partnership and innovative solutions, these efforts ensure that Wyoming’s big game populations can thrive for generations to come.

The Moose Fund: A Lifeline for Struggling Moose Populations

In the vast and rugged landscapes of Wyoming, where wildlife thrives amidst stunning natural beauty, moose populations are struggling. These majestic animals are facing challenges that threaten their existence, from habitat loss to warming temperatures. Fortunately, passionate individuals like Mary Rumsey are stepping up to ensure the survival of these iconic creatures through initiatives like The Moose Fund.

Photo courtesy of the Wyoming Game & Fish Department.

The Origins of The Moose Fund

Mary Rumsey, a resident of Meeteetse, Wyoming since 1997, has long held a deep love for moose. Over the decades she’s lived in Meeteetse, she and her neighbors noticed a steady decline in moose numbers. Mary had grown used to seeing them lounging in her front pasture and was comforted by their presence, so it was noticeable when moose started making fewer and fewer appearances. Recognizing the plight of these animals, in 2022 Mary took action by establishing The Moose Fund, a dedicated initiative within The WYldlife Fund aimed at supporting projects and research focused on moose conservation and habitat restoration.

The Moose’s Struggle

Moose are impressively adapted to their northern habitats, with long legs to navigate marshes and deep snow, and dark hair to keep them warm in frigid winters. However, they face significant challenges in warmer climates. All these winter adaptations work against them in the summer months. Moose begin to overheat in temperatures above 56 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning the steadily warming summers have pushed moose tolerance levels to their limits. Wanting to better understand the effects of warming temperatures on moose, the University of Wyoming began a research project in 2020, which was generously funded by Mary and the Wyoming Game & Fish Commission.

Photo courtesy of the Wyoming Game & Fish Department.

Researchers found that, in trying to stay cool, moose choose water more often than shade. This hefty mammal needs to lay on wet ground or in standing water in order to release potentially life-threatening heat. In the face of a warming, drying climate, this is difficult news.

However, not all hope is lost. The results of this study have created a new goal: to sustain moose populations through the maintenance and improvement of riparian areas such as creek bottoms and wetlands.

The Role of Beavers

Enter: beavers. Interestingly, the fate of moose is intertwined with these large rodents. Beavers, with their remarkable ability to engineer ecosystems through dam-building, create vital riparian habitat that benefits numerous species, including moose. Their dams create pools and wet areas where moose can cool down during hot weather, providing essential relief from heat stress.

Recognizing the connection between beavers and moose habitat, The Moose Fund supported a project to construct a beaver holding facility at the Cody Regional Office of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department in 2023. This facility, completed in late fall of 2023, enables the temporary housing of beavers awaiting translocation, ensuring their well-being and facilitating the restoration of riparian habitats critical for moose survival. Previously, the Cody Regional Office was using a mobile trailer that could only house one beaver family unit at a time, making trapping season slow. The new permanent facility has space for up to four families, allowing for more beavers to be translocated at a time and therefore leading to the creation of more wetland habitats. “This is a very cheap investment for the value of wetland we’re getting out of it,” said Jerry Altermatt, a terrestrial habitat biologist with the Wyoming Game & Fish Department. By relocating beavers to suitable habitats, these efforts not only restore ecosystem functions, but also create essential cooling spots for moose.

The new beaver holding facility at the Cody Regional Office of the Wyoming Game & Fish Department. Photo courtesy of Jerry Altermatt.

Photo courtesy of Jerry Altermatt.

Photo courtesy of Jerry Altermatt.

As a warming, drying climate continues to pose challenges to wildlife, proactive conservation efforts like those supported by The Moose Fund become increasingly important. By investing in projects that address the root causes of habitat degradation and support keystone species like beavers, we can ensure a brighter future for moose and the ecosystems they inhabit.

The Moose Fund stands as a beacon of hope for struggling moose populations in Wyoming and beyond. Through the support of dedicated individuals like Mary Rumsey and collaborative efforts with organizations like the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, we can make a meaningful difference in preserving these iconic creatures and the habitats they rely on. As we continue to champion conservation initiatives, let us remember that by helping beavers, we are also helping moose and the rich tapestry of life that thrives in our wilderness.

If you are interested in making a restricted donation to The Moose Fund, please reach out to The WYldlife Fund at chris@thewyldlifefund.org or 307-316-3863.

Announcing The Pronghorn Fund: Safeguarding Wyoming’s Iconic Wildlife Legacy

Pronghorn, often referred to as the crown jewel of Wyoming’s wildlife, symbolize the state’s unique natural heritage. Their graceful presence has captivated generations, embodying the spirit of the untamed West. Wyoming has the largest intact pronghorn herds in North America. In the wake of the massive winter die-off of 2022-23, coupled with habitat loss and changes brought on by human development, Wyoming’s iconic pronghorn population is struggling. More species-specific research and projects are needed to preserve this iconic population, all of which requires funding.

Rich and Mary Guenzel, long-time Wyoming residents, are eager to provide this funding. They are the generous donors behind the new Pronghorn Fund, a permanently endowed fund within The WYldlife Fund to advance pronghorn habitat, research, and education in Wyoming. With an initial investment of $350,000, investment earnings from this fund will be put to work in the protection of Wyoming’s pronghorn.

Photo courtesy of the Wyoming Game & Fish Department

Photo courtesy of the Wyoming Game & Fish Department

This new fund represents a pivotal moment in The WYldlife Fund’s unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation in Wyoming. It serves as a shining example of how individuals can channel their passion for Wyoming’s wildlife into tangible impact through restricted gifts to The WYldlife Fund. The Guenzels’ profound dedication to pronghorn conservation exemplifies this ethos, and we are thrilled to offer them a platform to make a lasting difference in safeguarding this iconic species. Whether you share a passion for pronghorn or any other member of Wyoming’s wildlife, The WYldlife Fund stands ready to collaborate with you in any capacity to contribute to the conservation efforts of your chosen population.

Furthermore, while we recognize and applaud the invaluable efforts of various NGOs across the state dedicated to caring for a number of specific species, The WYldlife Fund now positions itself as a premier organization for those passionate about pronghorn conservation. With the establishment of The Pronghorn Fund, we invite individuals seeking to make a targeted contribution to pronghorn conservation to join us in our mission to protect and preserve these remarkable animals for generations to come.

Last week, we spoke with Rich to learn more about what this species means to him and his wife. “I’d always enjoyed seeing them as a kid,” Rich said. “I grew up in Texas and my parents would take me camping and visiting national parks in Colorado and Wyoming. We would go through the panhandle of Texas and into New Mexico–that was where we’d usually see the first glimpses of pronghorn.” His fascination began there. “The more I learned, the more fascinated by them I became.”

As a young man, Rich moved to Wyoming to attend college at the University of Wyoming, where he studied wildlife biology. He then became a state biologist in the Laramie region, dedicating the next 25 years to the research, conservation, and management of pronghorn, among numerous other species. It was during this time that he met his wife, Mary, who worked as an occupational therapist. They bonded over their shared love of the outdoors and activities like hiking, camping, cross-country skiing, and nature photography. The rest, as they say, is history.

Mary & Rich Guenzel

As a biologist, Rich’s contributions to pronghorn research and management were instrumental in shaping conservation efforts across the region. Now retired, he and Mary want to give back to the species that encapsulates their beloved home state and, more broadly, the West. “There is no better large mammal in Wyoming that exemplifies the character of our state than the pronghorn,” Rich said.

The WYldlife Fund is proud to provide the foundation on which to build The Pronghorn Fund. This fund represents a new chapter in The WYldlife Fund’s commitment to conservation in Wyoming. It will prioritize investments in key areas critical to pronghorn conservation. These include:

- Habitat Restoration: Supporting initiatives to restore and conserve pronghorn habitats, particularly their winter ranges. Recent findings from Hall Sawyer and Andrew Telander highlight the pressing issue of unavailable pronghorn habitat in the Red Desert, with an estimated 104,000 acres rendered inaccessible due to exclusionary/woven wire fencing (Sawyer & Telander, 2024). The Pronghorn Fund offers an immediate opportunity to address this critical habitat loss and provide essential support to pronghorn populations devastated by last winter’s challenges.
Fence exclusion areas in the Red Desert (Sawyer & Telander, 2024)
- Migration Protection: Contributing to the establishment and maintenance of wildlife corridors to help pronghorn migrate safely across their habitat. This includes land protection, wildlife-friendly fencing solutions, and wildlife crossings and underpasses.
- Scientific Research: Funding research projects aimed at better understanding pronghorn behavior, habitat needs, and the threats they face.
- Education and Outreach: Developing educational programs to raise awareness about the importance of pronghorn conservation and the delicate balance of Wyoming’s ecosystems.
- Community Engagement: Collaborating with local communities to implement conservation initiatives and foster stewardship of pronghorn habitats.

As stewards of Wyoming’s natural heritage, the establishment of The Pronghorn Fund represents a milestone in our collective commitment to conservation. Through collaboration and innovation, we have the opportunity to ensure that pronghorns continue to roam freely across Wyoming’s landscapes for generations to come. With the support of individuals, organizations, and communities, we can safeguard the future of these iconic creatures and preserve the wild spirit of the West. Together, we embark on a journey to protect Wyoming’s crown jewel—the pronghorn.

If you are interested in making a direct gift, or learning more about naming The Pronghorn Fund in your estate planning, please reach out to Chris McBarnes at 307-316-3863 or chris@thewyldlifefund.org.

Photo courtesy of the Wyoming Game & Fish Department

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Works Cited:

Sawyer, H., & Telander, A. (2024). Lander Region/Red Desert Pronghorn Study. Laramie: Western Ecosystems Technology, Inc.