FROM THE PARKS: Free Yellowstone Area Xeriscaping Guides

Posted on 12 May, 201522 May, 2015 by wlmeditor

Thanks to Smith's in Jackson for being a new distribution point for WLM! Don't forget to say hello to Mitch Alm, Manager of Smith's! Thanks guys! — Thanks to Smith’s in Jackson for being a new distribution point for WLM! Don’t forget to say hello to Mitch Alm, Manager of Smith’s! Thanks guys!

Free Greater Yellowstone Area Xeriscaping Guide Now Available

As another growing season is beginning, the Greater Yellowstone Coordinating Committee encourages people to be mindful and efficient in their water use and to utilize practices that use less water in their residential or business landscaping. The committee’s Sustainable Operations Subcommittee is now offering a free, illustrated, color booklet entitled “Xeriscape Landscaping in the Greater Yellowstone Area” which includes suggestions for water-conserving plants and landscaping techniques.

“This year’s lower-than-average snow pack across most of the Greater Yellowstone Area has caused renewed interest in water-wise landscaping,” said the booklet’s co-author and project coordinator, Jane Ruchman, Landscape Architect for the Custer Gallatin National Forest. “Decreasing our landscaping water use also decreases the energy required for pumping and distribution. It’s a win-win approach to landscaping.”

Water and energy conservation is a priority for the Greater Yellowstone Coordinating Committee, a group that is comprised of the Greater Yellowstone Area federal land managers. While some of the West’s great rivers that inspirit and sustain this extraordinary environment originate on federal land in the Greater Yellowstone Area, we all share the responsibility to use our water wisely.

For a free copy of this booklet, call your local Forest Service office on the Custer Gallatin, Shoshone, Bridger-Teton, Caribou-Targhee national forests, or the Madison Ranger District in Ennis. Blake Nursery, which provided valuable assistance in the creation of the guide, also has copies available for the public in the Big Timber area. An electronic copy is posted online at http://fedgycc.org/SOSOverview.htm. For more information, contact Jane Ruchman at (406) 587-6966.

FROM THE PARKS: Migratory Bird Day

Posted on 8 May, 2015 by wlmeditor

credit – Grand Teton National Park

Come Celebrate International Migratory Bird Day, May 9

MOOSE, WY —Visitors and local residents are invited to celebrate International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD) at Grand Teton National Park by joining a bird-watching caravan on Saturday, May 9th. Park Ranger Andrew Langford will visit several park areas that provide the best opportunities to locate, identify, and record birds as part of the annual North American bird count and annual IMBD observance.

Anyone interested in birds is welcome. The bird-watching excursion begins at 8 a.m. from the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center in Moose and finishes by 4 p.m. at Christian Pond by Jackson Lake Lodge. This public activity is free and reservations are not required. Participants of the IMBD activity are reminded that park entrance stations are open; therefore a park pass is required for travel through any fee station.

Throughout the day, participants will take short walks at various locations, so those attending should wear comfortable shoes and bring a lunch, drinking water, warm clothing and rain gear. Bird field guides, binoculars and spotting scopes are also recommended items.

The 2015 IMBD theme, “Restore Habitat, Restore Birds,” focuses on the loss and degradation of bird habitats around the world. Urbanization and climate change are two of the primary threats to bird populations. To foster conservation efforts, IMBD suggests ways to get involved in habitat restoration projects at home, in communities, and further afield. Each habitat illustrated on the 2015 IMBD poster provides a colorful view of the places migratory birds seek for nesting, wintering, or as stopover sites during migration. Grand Teton National Park provides critical habitat for a host of migratory birds, as well as year-round species. The arrival each spring of sandhill cranes, mountain bluebirds, western tanagers, meadow larks and other charismatic and fascinating birds brings delight to park visitors and local bird watchers alike.

As always, the annual theme is relevant to host organizations and participants throughout the world. Participation in Grand Teton’s IMBD tour offers a chance to learn about the benefits of birds and their unique contribution to the health and beauty of the natural areas in northwestern Wyoming.

Observed each year in May to support avian conservation, IMBD serves as the hallmark outreach event for Partners in Flight—an international conservation program with a goal to reverse dwindling populations of migratory birds by bringing attention to factors that contribute to worldwide declines.

For more information about International Migratory Bird Day and the North American Migration Count, please call the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center at 307.739.3399. To learn more about the IMBD organization, go to http://www.migratorybirdday.org/

ARTS in WY: Plein Air in Wyoming

Posted on 16 July, 201426 March, 2016 by wlmeditor

Bighorn National Forest Plein Air Celebration of Wildflowers

From June 25-28, the first Bighorn National Forest Plein Air Celebrations of Wildflowers was held at Spear O Wigwam, Mountain Campus in the Bighorn Mountains. The spring wildflowers were spectacular and all were inspired.

The Powder River Energy Best Artist of the Workshop $400 Cash Award was presented to Gayle Barnett a watercolor artist from Meeteetse, Wyoming.

The Hospital Pharmacy, Daily Best Awards of $125 each, were presented to: Ruth Beckwith of Sheridan, Sally Labore of Sheridan, Maya Gilmore of Sheridan and Gayle Barnett of Meeteetse.

Next year’s event will be held June 22, – 26, 2015 — All you artists out there, carve out time for this in your summer!

The four Hospital Pharmacy, Daily Best Award winners -- Ruth Beckwith, Sally Labore, Maya Gilmore and Gayle Barnett — The four Hospital Pharmacy, Daily Best Award winners — Ruth Beckwith, Sally Labore, Maya Gilmore and Gayle Barnett

Professional Artists to Capture Teton Scenery & Wildlife at Annual ‘Plein Air for the Park’

MOOSE, WY — Grand Teton National Park will serve as both the inspiration and location for the third annual ‘Plein Air for the Park’ fine art exhibition co-hosted by Grand Teton Association (GTA) and the Rocky Mountain Plein Air Painters. Over 40 professional artists from across the United States will spend two weeks (July 7-20) painting in the park, as they capture on canvas the spectacular Teton landscape, wildlife and wildflowers. All sessions/events are free and open to the public.

The ‘Plein Air for the Park’ event and art sale will include an opening reception on Wednesday, July 16, at 7 p.m. in the Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center at Moose, Wyoming. A fine art show and sale will take place from July 16-20, also at the Discovery Center. The two-week-long event will culminate with a quick draw at 9 a.m. on Saturday, July 19, in the Menor’s Ferry Historic District. Park visitors and local residents are invited to watch paintings created from start-to-finish. All paintings may be purchased for a fixed-price immediately following the quick draw.

Plein air artist Wes Newton_2012 Quick Draw

Forty percent of the proceeds from sales made during ‘Plein Air for the Park’ will benefit GTA and help fund ongoing educational, interpretive and scientific programs in support of Grand Teton National Park.

“We look forward to welcoming the Rocky Mountain Plein Air Painters who will share their creative and artistic talents with our park visitors throughout much of July,” said Grand Teton National Park Superintendent David Vela. “This free public event offers a unique opportunity to glimpse the power, beauty, and inspiration of the Teton landscape through the eyes of an artist.”

2014 EVENT SCHEDULE:
For complete information visit www.pleinairforthepark.org

JULY 7-19:
Artists paint in and around Grand Teton National Park and Jackson Hole.

SATURDAY, JULY 12:
Artists in the Environment Demonstration
3 – 6 PM: Bradley/Taggart parking area & Cottonwood Creek picnic area

WEDNESDAY, JULY 16:
Full exhibition opens to the public. Reserve works will be available for viewing and purchase.
12 Noon: Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center
7 – 9 PM: Gala Opening Reception
7:45 PM: Announcement of Awards

THURSDAY, JULY 17:
Group Painting Demonstration
5 – 8 PM: Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Area Visitor Center, North Cache Street in Jackson

SATURDAY, JULY 19:
Quick Draw & Sale
9 AM – 12 Noon: Menor’s Ferry Historic District/Chapel of the Transfiguration. Sale immediately following.

Historic Governor’s Mansion Celebrates Wyoming Day

Posted on 25 June, 201426 March, 2016 by wlmeditor

The Wyoming Historic Governors’ Mansion State Historic Site in Cheyenne honored Wyoming’s statehood with the Wyoming Day Celebration event on June 21^st. Wyoming achieved statehood on July 10, 1890, cementing its place within the Union of the United States and as the 44^th state. They celebrated with turn of the century activities on the lawn, Wyoming vendors, good food, a schedule of fun events, a pie eating contest, music and more!

Activities included traditional games such as croquet, graces and sack and potato races on the lawn. Historic characters met the guests. Piano by Bogy Bogensburger graced the mansion’s visitors, and outside Dave Munsick inspired many to dance. Special guests, Secretary of State Max Maxfield and State Auditor Cynthia Cloud, addressed the crowd and shared why they think Wyoming is such a wonderful place.

“This is a great activity,” says Christina Bird, Superinentendent. “We have games, crafts, shopping, music, food, antique cars, an ice cream social and so much more! This is a great way to celebrate Wyoming’s statehood and heritage.”

Community Partners include: Wyoming Arts Council, Cheyenne Light Fuel & Power, Wyoming State Historical Society,Traders’ Shoppers Guide, Historic Governors’ Mansion Foundation, Nagle Warren Mansion B&B, S&V Carriages, 1st Veterans Silent Cavalry, Wyoming Tribune Eagle, Mort’s Bagels, Bread Basket, CashWa, Visit Cheyenne and the CFD Old West Museum.

The Historic Governors’ Mansion is located at 300 E. 21^st Street in Cheyenne Wyoming. Please call 307-777-7878 for more information.

ART IN WYOMING: Plein Air Elk Refuge, The Culture Trip Visits Cheyenne, GTNP Art, Laramie Mural Project

Posted on 13 May, 201419 May, 2014 by wlmeditor

Click the image at left for tickets, info, schedule & more for our Food & Photo Festival, May 30 & 31 in Laramie!

Plein Air Painters at Natl Elk Refuge Visitor Center May 13

A group of painters will use the backdrop of the National Elk Refuge as artistic inspiration on Tuesday, May 13, giving visitors an opportunity to watch and ask questions as the artists create their works.

The artists are part of the Teton Plein Air Painters, a group of artists who meet once a week from May – October in the Teton environs. Starting with two people during the summer of 2012, the group now has a communication list of over seventy. Typically, three to ten people are onsite to paint, referencing the landscape for motifs. Art mediums include oil, acrylic, watercolor, and pen and ink.

The group will spread out in the area of the visitor center, located at 532 N. Cache Street in Jackson. Weather permitting, likely locations will include the visitor center lawn, the covered upper deck of the facility, and the remote viewing deck across the lawn next to the wetlands area. Current visitor center hours are from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, but visitors are welcome to stroll through the grounds after hours to enjoy the art session.

En plein air is a French expression which means “in the open air” and is used to describe painting done in an outdoor setting. The artists paint natural light, using color to define form. Depending on the light and weather, plein air paintings are generally done in one session. Artists may add final touches to their work once back in the studio. For additional information on the Teton Plein Air Painters and Tuesday’s session, contact Bobbi Miller, Facilitator, at 307 / 543 2910.

Artful Hand Gallery

Cheyenne’s 10 Contemporary Art Galleries: Wyoming Art Guide on The Culture Trip

Click the title above to connect with The Culture Trip and their review of contemporary art galleries in Cheyenne. They write, “Though Wyoming is known for its rural landscapes and cowboy character, its capital, Cheyenne, named for the Native American people of the Great Plains, is culturally diverse and heavily populated. We examine the budding cultural scene of this Western state with a look at the top ten galleries in its largest city.”

Grand Teton National Park: American Indian Guest Artists 2014 Program in Grand Teton National Park

Provided by Grand Teton National Park

MOOSE, WY —For the past 39 years, artisans from diverse American Indian tribes have demonstrated their traditional and contemporary art forms in Grand Teton National Park. This annual program provides visitors a chance to gain greater appreciation and understanding of Indian cultures that are still alive and active today.

Participating artists demonstrate and share the cultural traditions of their tribes through art forms such as painting, weaving, pottery, beadwork, and musical instruments. Guest artists exhibit daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Colter Bay Visitor Center. Artists also offer their finished items for purchase.

May 11 – 26	Debbie & Willy LaMere	Shoshone	Beadwork & Flint Knapping
May 27 – June 2	Amanda Coby	Shoshone	Beadwork & Weaving
June 3 – 9	Kelly Looking Horse	Lakota Sioux	Drums, Antler & Hide Items
June 10 – 16	Guillermo Martinez	Tarascan-Apache	Handmade Flutes & Drums
June 17 – 23	Kelly Looking Horse	Lakota Sioux	Drums, Antler & Hide items
June 24 – 30	Ted Moran	S’Klallam	Northwest Coastal Carving
July 1 – 7	DG House	Cherokee	Painting & Printmaking
July 8 – 14	Andrea Two Bulls	Oglala Sioux	Beadwork & Painting
July 15 – 21	Monte Yellowbird	Arikara/ Hidatsa	Ledger Art
July 22 – 28	Gale Self	Choctaw	Silver & Turquoise Jewelry
July 29 – August 4	Lovey Two Bulls	Oglala Sioux	Beadwork, Jewelry & Art Work
August 5 – 11	Debbie & Willy LaMere	Shoshone	Beadwork & Flint Knapping
August 12 – 18	Paul Hacker	Choctaw	Ledger Art, Knives & Flutes
August 19 – 25	Jola LaBeau	Eastern Shoshone	Beadwork & Other Crafts
August 26 – Sept. 1	Josie Broncho	Shoshone/Paiute	Beadwork
September 2 – 8	Nancy Nacki & Clyde Hall	Shoshone	Beadwork, Silver & Pottery
September 9 – 15	Maynard White Owl	Nez Perce/ Cayuse	Beadwork
September 16 – 22	DG House	Cherokee	Painting & Printmaking
September 23 – 29	Guillermo Martinez	Tarascan-Apache	Handmade Flutes & Drums
Sept. 30 – Oct. 13	Debbie and Willy LaMere	Shoshone	Beadwork & Flint Knapping

Laramie Main Street Alliances Downtown Mural Project Naming Contest

Join the Laramie Main Street Alliance in celebrating the fourth year of the Laramie Mural Project!

Now through the end of June, take a selfie with your favorite mural and post it to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using hashtag #laramiemural for a chance to win mural themed merchandise!

Then, visit the artists painting behind Altitude (starting next week) and suggest a name for our new mural! You can post your suggestions to our Facebook page, “Downtown Laramie” or email them to downtownlaramie@gmail.com.

Suggestions will be compiled by the artists and the top three will be posted the first week of June with voting opened up to the public. The name will be announced at our dedication party for the mural on Friday, June 13th from 5 to 7 p.m. behind Altitude Chophouse, 320 S. 2nd Street.

For more information about the Laramie Mural Project, visit: www.laramiemuralproject.org or call 307-760-3355.

NEWS FROM THE PARKS: Teton Park Road Now Open for Non-Motorized Spring Season Activities

Posted on 9 April, 2014 by wlmeditor

Teton Park Road Now Open for Non-Motorized Spring Season Activities

images by Grand Teton National Park — taken from the Mount Moran scenic turnout on the Teton Park Road in GTNP — April 2, 2014

Grand Teton National Park road crews cut through the deep snowpack on the Teton Park Road between the Taggart Lake parking area and Signal Mountain Lodge—a distance of 15 miles— and completed this portion of the annual spring plowing on Friday, April 4. The Teton Park Road has now melted down to pavement and is currently open to non-motorized recreation such as walking, roller-blading, and biking. However, road crews are still in the process of clearing the Jenny Lake scenic loop road, as well as other auxiliary roads and wayside areas.

Because the annual snow removal operations are still underway, anyone using the Teton Park Road for springtime recreation must be alert for and be prepared for sharing the road with heavy equipment, large trucks, and other park vehicles that will regularly travel this roadway as the spring opening continues. As a safety precaution, visitors to this area must stay at least 500 feet back from the large rotary snow removal equipment at work.

The annual plowing of the Teton Park Road is a process that can take several weeks to complete, depending on the depth and consistency of the snowpack. Due to the exceptionally deep and dense snowpack this year, snow removal on just the principal Teton Park Road has taken the better part of two weeks. Still, springtime visitors can look forward to access on this park road for more than three weeks before it opens for the summer travel season.

The Teton Park Road will open again to private vehicle use on Thursday, May 1, 2014. Visitors are reminded that dogs are permitted on the Teton Park Road. Owners are required to keep pets on a leash no longer than six feet in length, and are required to use waste disposal bags to pick up after their dogs. Mutt Mitt stations are in place at the Taggart Lake parking area.

REMINDER: Bears are now out of hibernation and active again in Grand Teton National Park and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway. Consequently, park visitors need to be alert for bears and take appropriate precautions when using the Teton Park Road and other park areas. Visitors should exercise common sense and good judgment, stay alert, and follow these recommended safety tips while biking, hiking or spring skiing:

• Make noise

• Travel in a group of three or more

• Carry bear spray and know how to use it

• Maintain a 100-yard distance from bears at all times

• Never approach a bear under any circumstances People should also report any bear sightings or sign to the nearest visitor center or ranger station. Timely reporting will help park staff to provide important safety messages about bear activity to other visitors.

Liberty Lausterer: Hitch Your Wagon to the Stars

Posted on 24 March, 201424 March, 2014 by wlmeditor

visit our website & read the new Sprinter 2014 issue!

Our guest blogger, Liberty Lausterer, is back with another introspective look at our square state. Liberty moved to Wyoming within this past year, and offers us her perspective at life in the Cowboy State from a new resident’s eyes.

HITCH YOUR WAGON TO THE STARS

Here’s a scary thought. According to Tyler Nordgren, author of Stars Above, Earth Below: Astronomy in the National Parks, 50% of children born this year will never see the Milky Way. I’m no astronomer, but I’d say that’s pretty tragic news.

At a recent talk Nordgren gave at UW, he shared how light pollution is quickly turning the night sky into a rare commodity. We have now entered the era in which families across the U.S. will have to pack their kiddos into a car and drive a lengthy distance to a national park (spending lots of money on gas and lodging and drive-through meals), all so their kids can see the stars. And in some cases (such as Great Smoky Mountains National Park) not even the parks are immune to the devastating effects of light pollution.

The good news is we in Wyoming don’t have many city lights. It’s one of the many things I love about living in a sparsely populated state! But what our children, and our children’s children, will see in the coming generations depends a lot on the choices we make today. From the lights we install in our yards to light up our walkways, to the street lights we approve as communities, the fate of Wyoming’s night sky rests in our hands.

image by Tyler Nordgren

John Muir, the naturalist, said “When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the universe.” My husband and I have stopped turning the front porch light on when we leave for the evening. I guess you could say it’s our small act of gratitude for the gift of this incredible Wyoming sky we share. So hitch your wagon to the stars!

NEWS FROM THE PARKS: National Elk Refuge Celebration, GTNP Looking for Youth for Summer 2014

Posted on 7 March, 20147 March, 2014 by wlmeditor

Visit our website & read the current issue – Spring 2014 issue will be coming out soon!

image from National Elk Refuge website

National Elk Refuge: NER to Celebrate the National Wildlife Refuge System

The National Elk Refuge is pleased to offer an opportunity this month to celebrate several significant dates in the history of the National Wildlife Refuge System. From Friday, March 14 through Sunday, March 23, displays and naturalist presentations at the Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center will focus on the conservation efforts of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The events listed below will run daily throughout the ten–day celebration and are free of charge. The Visitor Center is located at 532 N. Cache Street in Jackson and is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.

President Theodore Roosevelt established the nation’s first wildlife refuge on March 14, 1903 at Pelican Island National Bird Reservation in Florida. Since then, the National Wildlife Refuge System has grown into a vast network of habitats that benefits wildlife, provides outstanding outdoor experiences, and protects a healthy environment. To show how large the national wildlife refuge system has grown, National Elk Refuge naturalists will display a large U.S. map in the Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center, showing the location of all the refuges (over 560) throughout the country. Visitors will be asked to place a pin on the national wildlife refuge closest to their home. On March 24, the refuge receiving the most pins will be announced on Facebook and Twitter.

Guests can learn more about the establishment of the National Wildlife Refuge System through two displays set up in the small theater located on the top level of the Visitor Center. The first exhibit will be a time line showing significant dates throughout the history of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, along with a brief description of each event. The second display will highlight the 80 year history of the Federal Duck Stamp program. President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp Act, popularly known as the Duck Stamp Act, on March 16, 1934. Originally created as a license required for hunting migratory waterfowl, Duck Stamps have a much larger purpose today. They serve as a vital tool for wetland conservation, with 98 cents out of every dollar generated by the sales going directly to purchase or lease wetland habitat within the National Wildlife Refuge System. The sale of stamps is not restricted to hunters; many non–hunters collect the beautiful stamps and purchase them to support wildlife conservation. Refuge naturalists will share images of some of the previous Duck Stamps from throughout the years.

Visitor center staff will run a video entitled “America’s Darling: The Story of Jay N. Ding Darling” continuously during the celebration to honor the conservation achievements of the man that designed the first Federal Duck Stamp. In addition to his Duck Stamp art, Darling authored two books and twice won the Pulitzer Prize for cartooning, in 1923 and again in 1942. He used his satirical pen to promote issues of conservation and to bring national attention to environmental concerns. On Sunday, March 16, naturalists will set up a table with art supplies and reference books outside of the theater, allowing children and adults to design their own Duck Stamp.

More information on the National Wildlife Refuge System can be found at www.fws.gov/refuges/about/index.html. To inquire about the Visitor Center events, please call 307.739.9322.

National Park: Youth Conservation Program Recruits Wanted!

Grand Teton National Park Recruits for 2014 Youth Conservation Program

MOOSE, WY —Grand Teton National Park is recruiting participants for the 2014 Youth Conservation Program (YCP). Funding for this youth employment opportunity comes from the Grand Teton National Park Foundation through generous contributions by their donors. Applications must be postmarked by March 14, 2014

The YCP is a summer program for high school students, ages 16 to 19. The 2014 program will span ten weeks from June 16 through August 21. This marks the ninth year that Grand Teton has conducted the program, and trail supervisors hope to enroll 15-25 short-term positions during this recruitment period.

Participants must be at least 16 years of age by June 16, and live locally as housing is not provided. Applicants must also be United States citizens and students in good standing. Other qualifications include good team skills, a willingness to learn about Grand Teton National Park and its trail system, and the ability to work at a physically demanding job which may involve lifting 30-40 pounds. Wages for participants in the YCP program are set at approximately $11.00 per hour.

YCP enrollees develop an understanding of National Park Service (NPS) conservation ethics as they assist with critically-needed maintenance and rehabilitation on park trails and pathways. Participants work alongside NPS crew leaders and become familiar with NPS stewardship goals, while learning essential trail maintenance skills. YCP participants will work 30-50% of their time with several of the other park divisions (i.e. Science and Resource Management, Interagency Fire, Interpretation, and Visitor and Resource Protection). Students will also meet experts in all aspects of public lands conservation.

During the course of their day, YCP participants may answer basic visitor questions and serve as ambassadors for the park as they complete project work on some of the most visible, and most impacted, park trails. Most of the work will be focused on projects dealing with rehabilitation of trails and backcountry areas through activities such as brushing, hazard tree removal, and construction of water bars and drainage swales. In addition to the project work, environmental education programs and several recreational opportunities are also offered.

As an extension of their mission to support innovative projects that add value to Grand Teton National Park, the Foundation provides funding for salaries, work boots, work pants, tee-shirts, and free transportation to and from Jackson for YCP participants. For more information about this youth program and how to contribute to future YCP activities, or other Foundation programs, contact Leslie Mattson by email at leslie@gtnpf.org or phone 307.732.0629.

To obtain an application or get further information about the 2014 YCP, please call Stacy Myers in Grand Teton National Park at 307.739.3379, or write to YCP Program, GTNP, Drawer 170, Moose, WY 83012. Applications are also available online at http://www.nps.gov/grte/supportyourpark/ycp.htm

Gain Free Entry into Grand Teton National Park on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Posted on 14 January, 2014 by wlmeditor

MOOSE, WY — Grand Teton National Park will waive entrance fees on Monday, January 20, 2014 in recognition of the Martin Luther King, Jr. federal holiday. Grand Teton will join the more than 400 other units of the National Park System to acknowledge this special day as part of an effort to encourage families and individuals to visit and experience the wonders of their national parks. The entry fee for a private, non-commercial vehicle to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks normally costs $25 for seven days.

In addition to waiving entrance fees during this upcoming holiday, Grand Teton will also offer free admission on eight other days throughout 2014. The additional fee-free dates for the calendar year include:

• February 15-17 (President’s Day weekend)

• April 19-20 (National Park Week opening weekend)

• August 25 (National Park Service’s 98th anniversary)

• September 27 (National Public Lands Day)

• November 11 (Veterans Day)

Weekend visitors to Grand Teton can enjoy winter activities from auto-touring, wildlife viewing and photography to cross-country skiing, skate skiing and snowshoeing across the snow-covered landscape. A popular winter trail—that spans the unplowed Teton Park Road from Taggart Lake parking area to Signal Mountain Lodge—is open, and although not machine groomed, it is packed and tracked by previous skiers.

In addition to skiing, photography and wildlife watching, ranger-led snowshoe hikes take place each Tuesday, Friday and Saturday day at 1:30 p.m. from the Taggart Lake parking area. The two-hour guided walks offer an opportunity to learn about snow science and winter ecology. Previous experience is not necessary, and snowshoes are available for a rental fee of $5 for adults and $2 for children, 8 years or older. Reservations are required and can be made at 307.739.3399.

For complete information about winter activities in Grand Teton National Park or the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway, go to http://www.nps.gov/grte/parknews/upload/Winter_Guide_14.pdf. Visitors can obtain winter season information about Grand Teton and the JDR Parkway in the following ways:

The park’s website at www.nps.gov/grte.
The Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center on North Cache Street in Jackson.
The park’s information line at 307.739.3399, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday— Saturday.

LODGING: The Bentwood Inn B&B, Jackson Hole, WY

Posted on 2 December, 2013 by wlmeditor

visit our website & read the current issue

For a beautiful and relaxing experience in Jackson Hole, visit The Bentwood Inn B&B in nearby Teton Village. A short drive from downtown Jackson, and a short drive to the slopes, The Bentwood Inn offers luxury and ambiance year-round. Outside Magazine called The Bentwood “One of North America’s best Ecolodges,” and as soon as you pull into the drive you’ll see why. We greatly enjoyed our own stay, with a lovely gas fireplace, spacious bathroom and a delicious night’s sleep.

Visit their website to learn more about The Bentwood Inn B&B – and when you’re planning your next Teton vacation, check them out!

SE WY Cross Country Skiing in WY – by Just Trails

Posted on 15 November, 201315 November, 2013 by wlmeditor

visit our website & read the current issue

We greatly appreciate Just Trails & Rebecca Walsh for sharing some tips on cross-country skiing in Southeast Wyoming! Check out their website to learn more about Wyoming outdoor resources — it’s a great tool!

3 Easy Cross-Country Ski Trails in Southeastern Wyoming

text & images by Rebecca Walsh, Just Trails

One of the advantages of living above 7,000 feet is that winter comes early and stays late. As our friends in other parts of the United States are enjoying scenic fall colors we’re dusting off our cross-country ski equipment and keeping an eye on the snowpack in the mountains.

Medicine Bow National Forest isn’t famous for its cross-country skiing but it should be. There are dozens of miles of trails just a short drive from Laramie. Trails are perfect for both novice and experienced skiers.

If you’re looking to spend a nice easy day on the ski trails we recommend the following locations:

Chimney Park

The Chimney Park trail system is the perfect place to learn how to cross-country ski. Trails wind their way along old logging roads with very little elevation change. While the trails are relatively flat, there are a few gentle rolling hills. The trails at Chimney Park have the added advantage of being tucked into a forest of lodgepole pines and aspen trees making it a great location to escape the Wyoming wind.

There are 4 trails at Chimney Park: Woods Creek Loop (2.9 miles), Porter Loop (4.0 miles), Lodgepole Loop (3.0 miles) and Jelm View Loop (3.1 miles) and trails range in elevation from 8,800 feet to 9,000 feet.

To get to Chimney Park travel southwest from Laramie on Highway 230 towards Woods Landing. The trailhead is just over 6 miles past Woods Landing on the south side of the highway between mile markers 33 and 34.

Ski trails at Chimney Park are sometimes groomed by the Forest Service; we recommend calling the Laramie Ranger District to find out if they’ve been groomed before heading to Chimney Park. There is a $5.00 day use fee payable at the trailhead. You can download a free trail guide for Chimney Park here.

Medicine Bow Rail Trail

The Medicine Bow Rail Trail is one of our favorites for easy backcountry skiing. The trail follows the old railroad bed of the Hans Peak and Pacific Railroad through the Medicine Bow National Forest for 22.4 miles. There are several different trailheads, most of which aren’t open or accessible during the winter. We recommend starting from the Woods Creek trailhead which is just past the Chimney Park trailhead off of Highway 230. This trailhead is not plowed in the winter, but there are places to park alongside the road.

The rail trail wanders through a pine forest along easy and flat terrain. Because this trail isn’t groomed, touring or backcountry skis with medal edges are recommended. This is a lesser known ski trail in the area and it’s a great place for solitude; rarely do we see other skiers here. You can download a free trail guide for the Medicine Bow Rail Trail here.

Tie City

While the cross-country ski trails at Tie City are more technical and challenging than those at Chimney Park or along the Rail Trail they have the advantage of being close to both Laramie and Cheyenne and they are regularly groomed by the Medicine Bow Nordic Association.

There are over 14 miles of trails at Tie City which span across a wide variety of terrain. Some of the more difficult trails offer challenging climbs while others offer gentle terrain through open meadows and dense forests. Trails at Tie City range in elevation from 8,400-8,900 feet. The Tie City Trailhead is strategically placed in what feels like one of the windiest places on Pole Mountain, making just getting of to the car the hardest part of any ski trip there. However, once you start skiing and get into the tree’s the wind is hardly noticeable.

To get to the Tie City Trailhead take the Happy Jack exit off of I-80 and follow Happy Jack Road (Highway 210) down from the summit. The trailhead is between mile markers 36 and 37.

Ski trails at Tie City are groomed and maintained by the Medicine Bow Nordic Association. There is a $5.00 day use fee payable at the trailhead. You can download a free trail guide for Tie City here.

For more information about trails in Southeastern Wyoming and all the information you need to plan an outdoor adventure, visit us at http://www.justtrails.com.

NEWS FROM THE PARKS: Report on Grizzlies in Yellowstone Ecosystem

Posted on 8 November, 2013 by wlmeditor

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AGENCY REPORTS AT MEETING PRESENT UNANIMOUSLY GOOD NEWS ABOUT YELLOWSTONE ECOSYSTEM GRIZZLY BEAR RECOVERY

BOZEMAN – Managers from the state, tribal, and federal agencies responsible for recovery of the grizzly bear in the Yellowstone Ecosystem heard good news at their recent meeting in Bozeman, Montana. Despite being a poor cone production year for the already beleaguered whitebark pine trees (WBP), managers heard reports of surprisingly few conflicts between humans and grizzly bears, even though a record count of 58 unduplicated females with cubs were observed in the ecosystem this year. Especially promising was that a female with cub was documented in each of the 18 bear management units used to keep track of the bear population.

In addition to reports of minimal conflicts from all of the states and national parks, managers also heard a report on the annual population status from the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team (IGBST). Utilizing existing statistical methods the population estimate for the Yellowstone Ecosystem in 2013 is 629.

Because grizzly bears have yet to enter their dens for hibernation, all of the information presented regarding conflicts was labeled as “Draft,” but current data shows 25 known grizzly mortalities recorded so far, which represents less than half the mortalities in 2012.

The IGBST also presented a synthesis of information on the effects of changes in bear foods on the health of the Yellowstone grizzly population. The IGBST had been tasked in the spring of 2012 to do this work so the Yellowstone Ecosystem Subcommittee (YES) managers would have the best available information on which to make a recommendation to the United States Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) on whether a new proposed delisting rule should be prepared or not. According to van Manen, “Our extensive analysis of existing research and monitoring has shown us that grizzly bears are resilient and resourceful in the face of changing food resources.” Additionally he said, “Our findings indicate that the decline in WBP due mostly to mountain pine beetles is not a major threat to the future of the Yellowstone grizzly bear population. Data show the observed slowing of population growth since 2002 is a result of increased grizzly bear population density and resulting declines in subadult survival.”

The food synthesis research was presented to the YES members who then voted to conditionally support the findings, pending completion of a final section of the report and having all the research peer reviewed and published in professional journals. The IGBST will be presenting the same information to the IGBC at their December meeting in Missoula, Montana. Both the YES and the IGBC will make recommendations of the USFWS, the agency responsible for deciding on whether a new proposed rule proposing to again delist Yellowstone bears would be developed and published for public comment. USFWS will likely make a final decision in late December or early January on whether to produce a new proposed rule or not.

According to Recovery Coordinator Chris Servheen, “If delisting were to occur it wouldn’t be until later in 2014.” Careful monitoring and management would continue if delisting were to occur. According to van Manen, “Our team will continue to monitor how grizzly bears respond over time and keep a close eye on the thresholds established to ensure a sustainable population.”

To learn more about grizzly bear recovery visit: www.igbconline.org. To view reports by the IGBST regarding the Yellowstone grizzly bear population visit: http://www.nrmsc.usgs.gov/research/igbst-home.htm.

FROM THE PARKS: Closure for Peregrine Falcon Area Lifted

Posted on 16 August, 2013 by wlmeditor

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Closure Lifted After Peregrine Falcon Chick Fledges
from Baxter’s Pinnacle Nest

MOOSE, WY — The public closure at Baxter’s Pinnacle and Descent Gully near the mouth of Cascade Canyon was lifted on Thursday, August 15. This area closure went into effect on May 1 to protect an active peregrine falcon nest. Due in part to the protection provided by this wildlife closure, the adult falcons successfully reared and fledged one chick.

The Baxter’s Pinnacle peregrines experienced little to no human interruption during their incubation and chick-rearing phases thanks to active support from the park’s two authorized concessionaires for guided climbing services, and to the cooperation of Jackson Hole’s climbing community that demonstrated responsible behavior and respected the closure. Peregrines are cliff nesters and can be sensitive to human disturbance, especially during their nesting period. Falcons are quite territorial and will often abandon nests to defend their territory, which leads to nest failure and low reproductive success.

Decimated by the harmful effects of the pesticide DDT, it is believed that peregrine falcons were virtually eliminated from the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) by the 1960s. In 1980, efforts to reintroduce peregrine falcons to Grand Teton National Park were initiated in conjunction with similar efforts elsewhere in the GYE and western United States. Between 1980 and 1986, 52 fledgling falcons were released at several sites in the Teton Range; seven to eight birds were released each time. After sufficient recovery was achieved, peregrines were delisted from the endangered species list in 1999. However, peregrine falcons remain a species of concern in Grand Teton National Park where only four nesting pairs exist. The Baxter’s nest area was first discovered in 2010, and it has produced one chick in three of the last four years (2010, 2011, and 2013). One other Teton site fledged two chicks this year.

The public closure served a second purpose: to also protect climbers from the peregrines as they will defend their nest site by dive-bombing perceived intruders. The peregrine falcon is among the world’s fastest birds, flying at 40-55 mph and diving at more than 200 mph while defending a territory or striking prey. This posed a safety risk to climbers who may have been knocked off their rock ‘perch’ and injured.

Seasonal and temporary closures for wildlife protection are common in Grand Teton to protect both wildlife and park users. Entering a posted wildlife closure is a violation that can result in a citation and fine under the code of federal regulations.

Hunting Prep, Laramie Main Street News, Art in Sheridan…

Posted on 2 August, 2013 by wlmeditor

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NATIONAL ELK REFUGE MAKES PREPARATIONS FOR BISON & ELK HUNTING SEASONS

image from National Elk Refuge website

Wildlife managers are preparing for two upcoming hunting seasons on the National Elk Refuge. Hunting programs on the Refuge are used as a management tool to achieve optimum herd size as determined through a cooperative effort between the National Elk Refuge, Grand Teton National Park, and Wyoming Game & Fish Department managers.

The 2013 bison hunting season on the National Elk Refuge will begin on August 15 and run through January 12, 2014. Bison hunting licenses are issued by the Wyoming Game & Fish Department. A Refuge–specific bison permit is required and is provided with the State license. Individuals who have not already applied and been selected for the 2013 season are not eligible to hunt bison this season.

The Refuge bison hunting season will be comprised of 12 hunt periods of varying length, with a number of week-long breaks of non-disturbance incorporated into the season. This is intended to increase the success rate for hunters since bison, along with other animals, may learn to avoid an area with continued hunting pressure. Wildlife managers are using the hunt period structure as a tool to achieve herd objectives.

The 2013 Refuge elk hunting season will run from October 12 through December 15 and will consist of 10 consecutive hunt periods. Persons interested in hunting elk may begin applying for Refuge–specific permits beginning Wednesday, August 14. Applications for elk permits must be submitted electronically by September 25 to be entered into a computerized random draw. The results of the drawing will be posted on the application web site by September 26.

Application for National Elk Refuge elk hunting permits is done in cooperation with the Wyoming Game & Fish Private Lands Public Wildlife Access program. Hunters may initially apply for only one hunt period per hunt unit and must already have a valid Wyoming elk license to enter the electronic drawing. Elk hunters attempting to fill two valid licenses on the Refuge during the same hunt period do not need to apply for two Refuge permits.

Bison and elk hunting information, including general information, application procedures, regulations, maps, weapons restrictions, and access can be found on the National Elk Refuge’s web page at www.fws.gov/refuge/national_elk_refuge. Printed copies of Refuge regulations can be picked up in Jackson at the Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center (532 N. Cache Street), Wyoming Game & Fish Department (420 N. Cache Street), or the National Elk Refuge Administrative Offices (625 E. Broadway Avenue). Printable versions (PDF) of the regulations and maps are available on the web site.

Persons traveling on Refuge roads, including Curtis Canyon and Flat Creek roads, are encouraged to familiarize themselves with hunt boundaries and be aware that hunters may be in the area.

LARAMIE MAIN STREET UPDATE

Mural by Travis Ivey

Thanks to over 160 backers, Laramie Main Street reached their fundraising goal for the Laramie Mural Project before their deadline of July 21st and then, the donations kept coming in! When all was said and done, they raised just short of $20,000!!!

mural plan, by Travis Ivey

They have already begun to use those donations to expand the Laramie Mural Project. Check out the new murals going up downtown at 3rd and Kearney, behind the Big Dipper at 111 Ivinson and in the alley behind the Curiosity Shoppe.

Be sure to mark your calendar for an event like you’ve never seen in downtown Laramie! Move in Weekend, Aug. 23 – 25 they will be hosting the Downtown Mash Up featuring the Gem City Car Classic and Laramie Fiber Arts Festival. This is a joint event between the University of Wyoming Athletic Dept., Laramie Main Street, DLBA and the fiber art galleries downtown.

Ever wondered what was above your favorite downtown businesses? Now is your chance to find out! Join Laramie Main Street on Friday, August 16 from 3 to 7 p.m. for a self-guided tour of the lofts and apartments downtown. Everything from cozy one bedroom units to expansive family lofts.

Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 the day of and can be purchased with cash, check or credit card from the Main Street office at 207 Grand Ave. or by calling 307-760-3355.

The Upstairs/Downtown tour is designed to promote residential space and living in the historic district as well as raise funds for the Laramie Main Street Alliance.

EVANSTON — ROUNDHOUSE FESTIVAL

Stop by the Roundhouse Festival this weekend in Evanston at the Roundhouse to purchase your 2013 HO collectors car. These will be available at the this weekends Roundhouse Festival. This year’s car commemorates the Lincoln Highway’s 100th anniversary!

SHERIDAN — SAGE Community Art Center Welcomes New Exhibits; Sheridan’s DDA Plans 3rd Thursday Fest for August

The next 3rd Thursday Festival will be held August 15! Join in for all the fun, food and music!

Check out the next round of great art exhibits at SAGE Community Art Center!

Photography News From Wyoming Lifestyle Magazine

Posted on 18 July, 201322 July, 2013 by wlmeditor

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We have lots happening in the photography world right now!

Read on for information on submitting your summer event photos — our new timeline cover photo contest — and our upcoming look at the T.A. Moulton Barn’s 100th anniversary! (Hint: we’re looking for YOUR pictures!)

Ten Sleep 4th of July Rodeo — image by David Huber Photography, Worland

SUBMIT YOUR SUMMER EVENT PHOTOS!

Have you see our album of summer event photos on Facebook yet? They’re really something! We’ve got shots coming in of rodeos, festivals, parades — it’s awesome! Submit your photos via our Facebook page or email to us at editor@wyolifestyle.com!

NEXT FACEBOOK TIMELINE COVER PHOTO CONTEST

Our timeline cover photo contest is an exciting thing that we do at WLM — and we’re ready to get a new contest going! The greatest theme requests were for summer events & activities — since Wyoming is full of them in the summer months! Rodeos, fairs, parades, concerts, festivals — there is so much happening around the Cowboy State — or what does summertime activity mean to you? Submit three photos max per photographer — horizontal images work best for Facebook timeline images. Submit via our Facebook page or email to editor@wyolifestyle.com — we’ll accept images through the evening of July 26, then voting begins!

100th Anniversary of T.A. Moulton Barn — We’re Looking for Your Images!

We are thrilled to have an opportunity to promote the T.A. Moulton Barn’s 100th anniversary, and bring notice to their fundraising efforts to restore one of the most photographed barns in the world! Through July 31, submit your photos of the T.A. Moulton Barn (please note this is the barn with the sharp triangular roof) — submit your photos and how you wish to be credited via email (editor@wyolifestyle.com) or on our Facebook page (Wyoming Lifestyle Magazine). We will create a special, digital supplement of the photos that will be shared on our website and via our social media channels. By submitting their photos, photographers agree to have their photo digitally published with proper credits — no financial compensation is offered. Please remember this is only the T.A. Moulton Barn that we are spotlighting currently — it is pictured below.

Below, please find information on Grand Teton National Park’s celebration of the 100th annivesary of the T.A. Moulton Barn!

image courtesy Grand Teton National Park

T.A. Moulton Barn Centennial Countdown & Lowdown

MOOSE, WY — Superintendent Mary Gibson Scott and the Moulton family would like to remind locals and visitors of the upcoming 100th anniversary celebration of the Thomas Alma Moulton barn on Mormon Row in Grand Teton National Park, Saturday, July 20, 2013. Attendees are advised to be prepared for a day in the sun and bring sunscreen, sun hats, and shade umbrellas. Special Moulton Barn water bottles will be available for purchase, as an alternative to disposable water bottles.

Parking will be extremely limited at Mormon Row and on Antelope Flats Road. Consequently, anyone wishing to attend the centennial activities should park and ride. Buses will provide free shuttles to and from the Moulton Barn between 8:45 a.m. and 2 p.m. with a start from the Moose Post Office parking lot. As an added bonus, Big Red Tours is offering free shuttle service from the town of Jackson to the Mormon Road venue aboard their open-top, double-decker London bus. To ensure a seat, RSVPs are requested at 307.413.9946. The schedule is as follows:

DEPART

9:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. from the parking garage on Glenwood Street near the Center for the Arts building
9:40 a.m. & 10:40 a.m. from Home Ranch parking lot on North Cache Street

ARRIVE

10 a.m. & 11 a.m. at Moulton Barn on Mormon Row in Grand Teton National Park

RETURN

12:00 p.m. & 1:00 p.m. from Mormon Row with stops at the Home Ranch lot & Glenwood parking garage

Several activities will take place between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. The activities schedule is as follows:

9:00 a.m. — Live music, light refreshments, raffle ticket sales, and historic photo display begins

9:15 a.m. — “In Blacktail’s Shadow” site-specific dance by Heather Sultz at Moulton Barn

9:30 a.m. — Barn tour by Harrison Goodall & Storytelling by Ken Thomasma at Moulton Ranch Cabins

9:45 a.m. — Jackson Hole Historical Society & Museum oral history booth begins

10:00 a.m. — Children’s quick draw and activity table with park ranger at Moulton Barn begins

10:30 a.m. — Barn tour by Harrison Goodall & Storytelling by Ken Thomasma at Moulton Ranch Cabins

11:00 a.m. — “In Blacktail’s Shadow” site-specific dance by Heather Sultz at Moulton Barn

11:45 a.m. — Raffle and silent auction winners announced

12:30 p.m. — Welcome by Grand Teton National Park Superintendent Mary Gibson Scott and remarks by

Jackson Mayor Mark Barron, Teton County Commissioner Paul Vogelheim, Jerry Moulton, grandson of Lucile & T.A. Moulton, and Sara Needles, Administrator for Wyoming State Parks & Cultural Resources

All proceeds from the silent auction and raffle events held at the Moulton Ranch Cabins will benefit a T.A. Moulton Barn Centennial Preservation Fund managed by the Grand Teton National Park Foundation and Grand Teton Association.

For more information about the T.A. Moulton barn and life on Mormon Row, along with historic photos, please visit the Web at www.themoultonbarn.com.