Wildlife Trust Fund projects approved
Includes a conservation easement on nearly 900 acres of habitat near Pinedale on Double Bar E Ranch
June 9, 2006
The Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resources Trust approved more than $1.3 million worth of wildlife and wildlife habitat projects on Thursday, June 8.
A $15 million trust fund was created in 2005 with the passing of the Wildlife and Natural Resources Funding Act. The trust fund supplies grants to nonprofit and government groups for projects to preserve and restore wildlife habitat and open spaces. Thursday’s approvals were the first round or projects since the fund was established. Thirty-one projects were approved statewide from an initial pool of 72 applicants.
Among the projects approved was $185,000 for a conservation easement on nearly 900 acres of wildlife habitat on the Double Bar E Ranch near Pinedale, sponsored by the Green River Valley Land Trust.
Other projects across the state involve prescribed burning to re-establish aspen habitat; stream enhancement and wetland creation to benefit fish and bird species; improving water resources for wildlife and livestock; and removing fencing that impedes wildlife movement.
Agencies and organizations sponsoring projects taking advantage of the funding included the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, the Bureau of Land Management, local Conservation Districts, the Wyoming Stock Growers Agricultural Land Trust, U.S. Forest Service, county Weed & Pest Districts, conservation organizations and the Wyoming Game & Fish Department.
Project applications for the second round of funding are due into the Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resources Trust by September 30, 2006.
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