Category: News From The Parks

WYO OUTDOORS: Wind River Country Trails & GTNP’s Active Trails Program

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image courtesy Wind River Visitor Council

 

Wind River Country Trails — Get Out There and Explore!

National Trails Day was June 1, but who needs one day to hit the trail and explore?! Fremont County in Wyoming is one place that is FILLED with trails for biking, hiking, horseback riding and more — check out our blog post from the Wind River Visitor Council for more info!

image by NPS

Grand Teton Launches Wellness Initiative with Active Trails Program

MOOSE, WY —  In partnership with St. John’s Medical Center, Grand Teton National Park will launch a new Active Trails program with a kick-off event June 6 from 5-7 p.m. at Miller Park in Jackson, Wyoming. The first 10 people to register for participation in the Active Trails program will receive a free annual pass to Grand Teton National Park, and a few lucky participants who attend a bear safety presentation will receive a free can of bear spray. Grand Teton’s Active Trails program is funded through a grant by the National Park Foundation, the official charity of America’s national parks.

Grand Teton is partnering with the wellness program at St. John’s Medical Center to launch this initiative focused on getting Jackson Hole community members active and outside. The partnership supports an online tracking portal where participants will log hiking and biking miles. Registered participants who log their progress on the portal are automatically entered in a lottery to win prizes that will get them back in the park for even grander experiences. Prizes will range from meals at restaurants located in the park to family adventure packages.

On the 13th of each month, Grand Teton park ranger naturalists will lead family friendly hikes for Active Trails participants. Free transportation will be offered to and from town to join these hikes. For details, please call 307.739.3399. Additional information about the hikes will be posted on the Active Trails portal.

To register as a participant in Active Trails go to www.sjmcwellness.com and create an account. Use the code AT2013 to create an Active Trails account.

Grand Teton was one of 22 national parks from across the country selected to receive a 2013 Active Trails grant from the National Park Foundation. Now in its fifth year nationally, the Active Trails program supports hands-on projects that encourage the public to lead healthy lives by actively engaging in activities that restore, protect, and create land and water trails across America. Since 2008, the National Park Foundation has granted nearly $1.7 million through its Active Trails program.

Grand Teton National Park is grateful for the ongoing support from Grand Teton Association and their contributions to this program. The National Park Foundation wishes to thank Coca-Cola and the Coca-Cola Foundation for their generous support of the Active Trails program.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL PARK FOUNDATION:

The National Park Foundation, the official charity of America’s national parks, raises private funds that directly aid, support and enrich America’s more than 400 national parks and their programs.  Chartered by Congress as the nonprofit partner of the National Park Service, the National Park Foundation plays a critical role in conservation and preservation efforts, establishing national parks as powerful learning environments, and giving all audiences an equal and abundant opportunity to experience, enjoy and support America’s treasured places. www.nationalparks.org.

NEWS FROM THE PARKS: eHike, Strutting Grouse, National Park Week

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Grand Teton National Park Posts New Interactive eHike on Website

 

MOOSE, WY — Come take a walk on the virtual wild side and explore one of the most popular hikes available at Grand Teton National Park. A new web-based, interactive program takes viewers on an ‘eHike’ around String Lake, one of the six glacial lakes that grace the foot of the Teton Range.

Grand Teton National Park interpretive rangers invite classroom students as well as visitors far and wide to explore, through the convenience of their personal computers, the beauty and wonders of the String Lake area. Whether viewers want to relive a previous hike taken around String Lake or plan for an actual visit, this virtual field trip—or eHike—provides an introduction to the features that make up String Lake and its mix of natural habitats.

The web-based tour introduces viewers to the various elements—earth, wind, water and fire— that form the physical environment of the String Lake area. It also explains the role these forces have played in the creation of today’s landscape.

eHikers can control images and sounds at each stop along their virtual tour, and they can activate videos to further explore the human and natural history stories related to each location. Alternate views will appear by hovering a mouse over side images, and hidden images will be revealed through the click of a button. eHikers can also click on audio icons to hear the sounds of birds and mammals along the trail, use video buttons to imagine being there, and “mouse over” a main image to find hidden gems in the virtual landscape.

“eHikes are becoming a useful and beneficial tool for providing park information to visitors before they can arrive in person,” said Vickie Mates, Grand Teton National Park’s chief of interpretation and partnerships. “We hope children and adults alike enjoy this virtual journey around String Lake, and we hope each viewer is tempted to make an actual visit to experience first-hand the captivating Teton landscape and wildlife.”

“The String Lake eHike is the first of what we hope to be a series of web-based, interactive programs that help orient visitors to Grand Teton National Park,” added Mates.

To experience this innovative program, visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/grte and click on links for photos and multimedia and virtual tour.

Celebrate Spring: Watch the Antics of Strutting Sage Grouse

 

MOOSE, WY – To celebrate the arrival of spring, park ranger naturalists will lead early-morning tours to observe strutting sage grouse as they perform their annual courtship dance on an historic lek (mating arena) located just off the Antelope Flats Road near Mormon Row. Strutting grouse trips will be offered on the following weekends: April 13–14, April 20–21, and April 27–28, 2012.

Ranger-led excursions offer an exceptional opportunity to witness this unique springtime ritual as sage grouse congregate and perform animated courtship displays. While participants view the antics of strutting grouse, rangers will provide information about their natural history and various conservation efforts underway for sage grouse populations that have declined throughout much of the American West.

Grand Teton to Offer Special Junior Ranger Programs During National Park Week

 

MOOSE, WY — Did you know April 20-28 is National Park Week? Come celebrate the annual observance in Grand Teton National Park. Join us for special events and programs that are fun and free for the whole family. This is also a perfect time to plan a special getaway to experience the wonders of Grand Teton National Park while we offer free park admission April 22-26.

“The 2013 theme, ‘Did you know…’ provides a fun way to discover the wonders of America’s national parks,” said National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis. “For example, did you know that there are national parks in all 50 states? Did you know that national parks include seashores, battlefields, and historic homes? Did you know that the country’s highest peak, lowest point, tallest tree, deepest lake and longest cave are in national parks? Did you know that you probably live within an hour or two of a national park?” Director Jarvis added, “National Park Week is a great time for all Americans to visit a nearby national park area to camp, hike, watch wildlife, and connect with our heritage and each other.”

The week kicks off with a celebration of National Junior Ranger Day on Saturday, April 20. Free events will take place at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center in Moose and junior rangers who participate in at least three of the activities will earn a Junior Ranger badge or patch. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 20, families can explore vehicles and equipment used in park operations including fire engines, ranger cars and snowplows. Visitors are also invited to compete in physical games testing their skills in a ranger obstacle course and against the abilities of various wildlife in the animal Olympics. Come listen to tales about Grand Teton in the story corner, touch and learn about animal furs, feathers and bones or dress up in a real ranger uniform. Staff from the Teton Raptor Center will also be on hand with live birds of prey, and at 1 p.m. there will be a living history demonstration on mountain me. These events are made possible with funding by the park’s long-time partner Grand Teton Association (GTA).

GTA will offer junior rangers a 15 percent discount in the bookstore where you can buy numerous educational and exciting books and interesting merchandise like videos, posers, and plush animals using the special discount.

Thanks to a generous donation from the Grand Teton National Park Foundation, free shuttles will be available to transport families from Jackson to the CTDVC for Junior Ranger Day events. Meet at Miller Park at 10:15, 11:15, or 12:15 for the free shuttle. Return trips to town will depart from the visitor center every hour. Space on the shuttles will be limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information call the CTDVC at 307-739-3399.

Teton Park Road to Open for Non-Motorized Activities

 

MOOSE, WY —  Grand Teton National Park road crews are nearing completion of annual spring plowing operations on the Teton Park Road from the Taggart Lake parking area to Signal Mountain Lodge. The road opens to non-motorized activities Friday, April 5, 2013.

 

Grand Teton National Park delayed plowing operations by two weeks. That delay, coupled with a relatively low snowpack, allowed plow crews to clear the road in only three days. Spring opening of the Teton Park Road is a process that can take upwards of 10 days to complete, depending on the depth and consistency of the snowpack.

 

Although the Teton Park Road will open to non-motorized use, visitors should be alert for park vehicles that may occasionally travel the road for administrative purposes. The Teton Park Road will open to vehicle traffic on Wednesday, May 1. 

 

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.

 

Sage grouse tours begin from the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center at 5:30 a.m. and reservations are required. To make a reservation and obtain information about what to wear and bring along on these free ranger-led trips, call 307.739.3399. Strutting grouse tours are just one of many opportunities to enjoy Grand Teton National Park during the month of April.

 

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WYOMING PEOPLE, ARTS & PARKS: February 27, 2013

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image courtesy Dee Mitchell

 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK!

Grand Teton National Park was officially established February 26, 1929 by President Calvin Coolidge. For 84 years, millions have enjoyed its beauty from around the world. A new report indicates the tremendous impact that GTNP has on local and state economy.

 

Grand Teton National Park Generates Over $436 Million in Benefit to Local Economy — Part of $30 billion impact from national parks tourism that supports 252,000 jobs nationwide

MOOSE, WY — A new National Park Service (NPS) report for 2011 shows that nearly 2.6 million visitors to Grand Teton National Park spent over $436 million in gateway communities surrounding the park. That spending, in turn, supported 6,397 jobs in the northwestern Wyoming communities of Jackson, Teton Village, and Dubois, as well as the nearby Idaho communities of Driggs and Victor.

“Grand Teton National Park is one of America’s premiere attractions for visitors from across the U.S. and around the world,” said Superintendent Mary Gibson Scott. “While we generally focus on Grand Teton’s priceless natural and cultural resources as the principle rationale for its creation and enduring value, another—perhaps less obvious—benefit of Grand Teton involves the economic advantage that comes from sustainable tourism generated by this national park and others located throughout the Intermountain West,”  added Superintendent Scott. “National parks provide great enjoyment, inspiration and education to American citizens and international visitors who spend their vacation dollars in both the parks and their gateway communities. These federal lands are visited by nearly 280 million people a year, which ranks them as eighth among America’s top domestic travel destinations according to Forbes.”

The information on Grand Teton National Park is part of a peer-reviewed spending analysis of national park visitors across the country conducted by Michigan State University for the National Park Service.  For 2011, that report shows $13 billion of direct spending by 279 million park visitors in communities within 60 miles of a national park.  That visitor spending had a $30 billion impact on the entire U.S. economy and supported 252,000 jobs nationwide.

Most visitor spending supports jobs in lodging, food, and beverage service (63 percent) followed by recreation and entertainment (17 percent), other retail (11percent), transportation and fuel (7 percent) and wholesale and manufacturing (2 percent.)

To download the report visit www.nature.nps.gov/socialscience/products.cfm#MGM and click on Economic Benefits to Local Communities from National Park Visitation, 2011. The report includes information for visitor spending at individual parks and also by state.

To learn more about national parks in Wyoming and how the National Park Service works with communities to preserve local history, conserve the environment, and provide local recreation opportunities, go to www.nps.gov/Wyoming . 

PET PANTRY OUTREACH LAUNCH RECEPTION OF PILOT PROGRAM TO HELP FEED PETS IN THE COMMUNITY

Paws2Help Pet Pantry Outreach, founded in Casper, Wyoming, will reach its first milestone with the distribution of approximately 930 pounds of dog and cat food to citizens in need within the community on Saturday, March 2, 2013, commencing with Natrona County Meals on Wheels clients. The Pet Pantry Outreach will hold its official launch and reception at 1:00 p.m. hosted by Greiner Buick/GMA/Cadillac at 6302 East 2nd Street, Casper, WY 82609. The Keynote Speaker, City of Casper Mayor Kenyne Schlager, will be followed by guest speakers from Paws2Help Foundation, Paws2Help Pet Pantry Outreach, Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies, Altitude Veterinary Hospital and Natrona County Meals on Wheels.

It was after the tremendous outpouring of donated pet food for displaced pets of the Sheepherder Hill Fire in October 2012 that Paws2Help Foundation Founder & President Lisa Craft identified a lack of an in-place organization providing the fundamentals helping feed pets in crisis in Wyoming. That is when Craft came up with idea of forming Paws2Help Pet Pantry Outreach, an organization that provides donated pet food to pet owners served by Meals on Wheels or those seeking assistance through the Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies who are burdened by tough economic times, a health crisis or some other kind of emergency. Pet Pantry Outreach’s mission is to help avoid the surrender of these animals to already overcrowded shelters, prevent them from being set loose to fend for themselves, or taken for euthanasia. Their purpose is to help pet owners keep their beloved pets, as pets are usually viewed as part of the family and often offer emotional support, which is essential to a person’s well being. Their mission also addresses the very real problem of Meals on Wheels recipients saving and feeding a portion of their meals to their beloved pets, because of financial stress or the inability to shop for pet food. We believe that this program will provide a quality pet food diet for the animals and keep the human food where it should be—with the humans who are owned by their beloved pets.

Pet Pantry Outreach, which has a Facebook page, made its online debut through word of mouth. Craft said the Facebook page generated interest from people wanting to volunteer, as well as calls from pet owners in need. Paws2Help Foundation, which initially organized the effort provides financial assistance to homeless animals in need of medical care, has been serving Natrona County since 2006 backs its mission with the motto that every animal, whenever we can, however we can, will get the help it deserves. Paws2Help Foundation is especially proud of the ground breaking efforts that this special program is helping many families cope with enormously difficult times. Ensuring that our community’s companion animals never go hungry is one of the most basic, and most critical, aspects of animal welfare. A person’s inability to feed their pet could be due to unexpected bills or expenses, with the situation being temporary. By offering pet food assistance we hope to lessen the burden of homeless pets on local animal shelters and rescue groups. We hope families and individuals are rest assured they’re able to keep their beloved pet during their hardship.

The multi-organization collaboration supporting Pet Pantry Outreach’s efforts, says volunteer Denise Wendinger, is what is most exciting – the program has the support needed to sustain itself in the future as well as to expand throughout Wyoming. Towards the goal of expanding throughout Wyoming the Pet Pantry Outreach plans to expand its advertising efforts to increase services to the community. We expect to attribute increased donations and dispersals to increased awareness of our services by having several local food banks voluntarily post our advertising on their premises. Paws2Help Pet Pantry Outreach is sponsored by Paws2Help Foundation and a collaboration by the Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies, Altitude Veterinary Hospital, and Natrona County Meals on Wheels.

Financial donations are essential for us to continue to carry out our mission. We are one of a relatively small number of pet food assistance programs throughout the US and have seen the effects of the importance of our mission on the local community. If you are interested in helping the Pet Pantry Outreach or would like more information, please see the Pet Pantry Outreach’s website at paws2helpwy.org or contact the Program Coordinator, Melissa Fenster.

Families in need can visit distribution location: Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies, 4967 Paige Street, Mills. Donations are tax deductible. If you are interested in helping Pet Pantry Outreach or would like more information, see the Pet Pantry Outreach’s website at “www.paws2helpwy.org”.

CONTACT: Melissa Fenster Program Coordinator of Paws2Help Pet Pantry Outreach  Tel. 307-298-0213    Email: petpantryoutreach@paws2helpwy.org

Paws2Help Foundation – a 501c3 non profit corporation helping provide financial means for homeless animals receive medical care. With our additional community service programs Paws2Help4Pits, Trap/Neuter/Release – Wyoming (Casper), and Paws2Help Pet Pantry Outreach brings the community together by providing a full circle solution since 2006.

Website: www.paws2helpwy.org   Email: paws2help@bresnan.net    Phone: (307) 215-3034

Altitude Veterinary Hospital – providing comprehensive and compassionate veterinary care and pet services year after year, making us the animal clinic of choice for pet owners in and around the Casper community since 1957. Altitude Veterinary Hospital offers the Casper community medical, surgical, and dental services, as well as emergency vet care. We also have in-house boarding and grooming facilities, making our veterinary facility a one stop shop for your pet’s health and medical needs

Website: www.popishvet.com  Phone: (307) 234-7333

Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies – Fighting hunger, feeding hope serving all 23 counties of Wyoming with the help of our 200 member agencies. In the past year, just over 5 million pounds of food was distributed to more than 55,000 of our Wyoming neighbors. Wyoming Food Bank of the Rockies is Wyoming’s food bank. With more than 9,000 volunteer hours as the driving force behind the success of our programs, we are working to end hunger in Wyoming. Please consider becoming a part of the effort to end hunger in Wyoming by supporting WFBR: donate food, funds, or time. You CAN make a difference.

Website: www.foodbankrockies.org/wyomingfbr/wyoming-home/ Phone: (307) 265-2172

Natrona County Meals on Wheels – To assist the elderly and/or homebound people of Natrona County maintain their independence and integrity, as well as their physical and mental health in the dignity of their own homes and environments, Natrona County Meals On Wheels prepares and delivers nutritionally tailored meals via caring community volunteers.

Website: www.mealsonwheels.com Phone: (307) 265-8659

“Around the Bend” featuring Beth Gleason on display at SAGE Exhibit Gallery in Sheridan

“Around the Bend,” featuring art work by Beth Gleason, will be on display March 1-29th at the SAGE Exhibit Gallery, located in Sheridan College Main St., 171 N. Main, in Sheridan.  The Artist’s Reception will be Thursday, March 14th, from 5:30-7pm.  This reception is open to the public and refreshments will be served.

Hours for the SAGE Exhibit Gallery are 9:00 am-4:30 pm, Monday – Friday. 

 The SAGE Exhibit Gallery is operated by the Sheridan Artists’ Guild, Et al.  Become a member of SAGE for just $40 per year.  For more information, visit the Sagebrush Community Art Center, located in the Historic Train Depot at 201 E. 5th St. in Sheridan, or online at www.artinsheridan.com. 

The five finalists for the National Museum of Wildlife Art’s 2013 Bull-Bransom Award feature illustrators’ unique takes on wildlife, from tiny mouse to friendly moose.

Five Children’s Book Illustrators Named Finalists for Bull-Bransom Award 

National Museum of Wildlife Art to announce winner in Jackson Hole May 3

Jackson Hole, Wyoming – February 25, 2013 – Five children’s books have been selected as finalists in the 2013 Bull-Bransom Award competition:

• Bear Has a Story to Tell, story by Philip C. Stead, illustrations by Erin E. Stead (Roaring Book Press, 2012)
• More, story by I.C. Springman, illustrations by Brian Lies (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2012)
• Nightsong, story by Ariel Berk, illustrations by Loren Long (Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2012)
• Oh, No!, story by Candace Fleming, illustrations by Eric Rohmann (Schwartz & Wade Books, 2012)
• This Moose Belongs to Me, story and illustrations by Oliver Jeffers (Philomel Books, 2012)

Illustrators of the five books are under consideration for the award, which is presented annually by the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson Hole, Wyo., to recognize excellence in children’s book illustration with a focus on wildlife and nature.  The 2013 winner of the Bull-Bransom Award will be announced at the museum on May 3, 2013, as part of its Celebration of Young Artists event, with the winning illustrator invited to attend.

“The illustrations in the five finalist books for this year’s Bull-Bransom Award are beautiful, creative, and interesting,” says Bronwyn Minton, assistant curator of art for the museum and a member of the finalist selection panel. “This award continues to highlight talented illustrators of animals and humanity’s relationship with nature.”

Sylvia Long won the 2012 Bull-Bransom Award for her illustrations in A Butterfly Is Patient (Chronicle Books), written by Dianna Hutts Aston. The 2011 award went to Kevin Waldron for Tiny Little Fly (Walker Books). Both Long and Waldron are serving on this year’s judging committee to select the 2013 winner.

Created in the tradition of such prestigious children’s book illustrator honors as the Caldecott, Coretta Scott King and Hans Christian Andersen awards, the Bull-Bransom Award is presented in the form of a medal and $5,000 cash award.  The National Museum of Wildlife Art named the award for Charles Livingston Bull and Paul Bransom, among the first American artist-illustrators to specialize in wildlife subjects.

A member of the Museums West consortium and accredited by the American Association of Museums, the museum, officially designated the National Museum of Wildlife Art of the United States by an act of Congress in 2008, provides an exciting calendar of exhibitions from its permanent collection and changing exhibitions from around the globe.  A complete schedule of exhibitions and events is available online at www.wildlifeart.org.  The museum is also active on Facebook and on Twitter at @WildlifeArtJH.

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NEWS FROM THE PARKS: Avalanche Victim Recovered

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Our thoughts & prayers go to the family and friends of Nick Gillespie…

Avalanche Victim’s Body Recovered from Survey Peak in Teton Range

 

MOOSE, WY— Grand Teton National Park rangers were able to recover the body of Nick Gillespie, age 30, of Jackson, Wyoming from Berry Creek canyon at 5 p.m. on January 28. Foggy conditions throughout most of Monday prevented earlier attempts to complete the mission before late afternoon. Rangers also concluded their investigation of the avalanche event that took his life on Sunday afternoon. Gillespie, a long-time seasonal employee of Grand Teton, was caught in an avalanche on the southeast face of Survey Peak (elevation 9,277 feet) at approximately 5 p.m. on Sunday, January 27, and he died as a result of injuries suffered in the slide.

Gillespie and three companions skied into Berry Creek canyon in the northern Teton Range on Thursday, January 24, intending to do a multi-day backcountry ski trip. On Sunday afternoon, Gillespie and one companion skied a run on the southeast face of Survey Peak. They then returned with a third member of their party to ski a final run. During that final run, the group planned to ski at one-minute intervals and fan out across the treed slopes. Gillespie was the last person to ski, and is believed to have triggered the avalanche that caught him. Gillespie was carried approximately 220 feet into trees where he was pinned and left partially buried with his head and one arm above the snow. The total slide path spanned 540 feet. The second skier encountered fresh avalanche debris, and believing that the first skier may have triggered it, immediately initiated a beacon search. He also called out and heard the first skier respond from below. He skied down to the first skier and learned that she was unaware of the avalanche. He then immediately skinned back of the slope to search with his avalanche beacon for Gillespie, and located him about  20 minutes after the accident occurred. He initiated CPR, and was eventually joined by the two other members of the party. In total, they performed CPR for approximately 1 ½ hours with no success.

Due to the remote area and spotty cell service, Gillespie’s companions were not able to make an emergency call for help until late evening. Teton Interagency Dispatch Center received notice of the incident at 9 p.m. on Sunday. Because of the late hour and confirmation that Gillespie did not revive during CPR, rangers made arrangements to recover Gillespie’s companions and his body during daylight hours on Monday, January 28. The surviving party of three stayed the night in a National Park Service patrol cabin located about one mile from Survey Peak.

Four rangers were flown into Berry Creek canyon at 11 a.m. Monday and two of the skiers were flown out during the single flight. Deteriorating weather conditions halted additional flights until late afternoon when Gillespie’s body plus one of his partners and all rescue personnel were flown out of the backcountry just before nightfall.  

The avalanche danger on Sunday, January 27 was listed as low for mid-elevation terrain. The crown of the avalanche on Survey Peak occurred at 8,405 feet.

Rangers recommend that backcountry users get the latest avalanche conditions and monitor both local weather and changing snow conditions. Backcountry users should also be prepared for all aspects of backcountry travel and travel with others, plus carry basic avalanche equipment such as a shovel, avalanche probe, avalanche beacon, and first aid kit. For local avalanche conditions visit www.jhavalanche.org or call 307.733.2664.

ON THE CALENDAR: August 17, 2012

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image from www.cheyenneribfest.com

CHEYENNE: RIB FEST AUGUST 17-19

The annual Cheyenne Kiwanis Rib Fest is a highly anticipated event! A ‘best rib’ competition joins live music, fun for the kiddos and a car show — all at the historic Train Depot in downtown Cheyenne! http://cheyenneribfest.com/

 

CHEYENNE: ARTS CHEYENNE’S INAUGURAL 17TH ST ART FESTIVAL, AUGUST 17 & 18

Check out this inaugural art event, held at the 17th St. Dineen Plaza in historic downtown Cheyenne! http://artscheyenne.com/blog/latest-news/17th-street-art-festival-call-for-art-display-booth-at-the-festival/

 

DOUGLAS: WYOMING STATE FAIR 100TH ANNIVERSARY THROUGH AUGUST 19

The State Fair this year is going to be an even more awesome event, as Wyoming celebrates its 100th fair! Click here to check out the website for more information — parades, rodeo, concerts, carnival, exhibitors, LOTS of fun for the whole family!

DOUGLAS: WYOMING MUSTANG DAYS THROUGH AUGUST 18 — Check out the website for more information! http://friendsofalegacy.org/?page_id=1304

 

CENTENNIAL: UPTON BREAKDOWN AUGUST 18, 4-8 PM

Uptown Breakdown in Centennial on Saturday- free festival at the Beartree, starts at 4 pm! http://www.centenniallibrary.net/calendar.html

 

image from www.casperwyofiddleclub.com

CASPER: REGIONAL FIDDLE CHAMPIONSHIP, MUSIC FEST, ART & CRAFT SHOW/SALE: AUGUST 17-19, YELLOWSTONE GARAGE

The festival includes the 22nd Annual Rocky Mountain Regional Fiddle Championships, and the 1st Annual Arts and Crafts Show and Sale. The festival begins Friday evening around 8pm with an informal ice-breaker jam session as musicians and fans arrive. Arts & Crafts opens along with the music competition, which includes numerous nationally certified fiddle categories, including guitar, variety instrument, female and male vocals. All music is acoustic, traditional old time style bluegrass or country.  http://www.casperwyoming.info/events.php

 

image provided by Nancy Brizuela

CURT GOWDY:  ANTELOPE DASH, AUGUST 25

The third annual Antelope Dash–a Race to Benefit the Nature Conservancy in Wyoming, will be on Saturday, August 25th, 2012, at Curt Gowdy State Park, in between Cheyenne and Laramie. There will be 4-mile or 8-mile options which participants can walk, jog, run, or race. Post-race pancake brunch by the Laramie Kiwanis, souvenir running socks for participants. To register or for more information, please see website at: www.theantleopedash.org

JACKSON:  CALDERA FESTIVAL, AUGUST 17 & 18

The inaugural Caldera Festival is a fusion of art, music, and fashion, showcasing the unique culture of Jackson, Wyoming – a place unlike any in the world. The two day festival will utilize the 550 seat theater and 55,000 square foot lawn of the Center for the Arts in downtown Jackson to welcome Terra:Textile on Friday evening and an outdoor concert featuring musician Andrew Bird on Saturday night. See The Mountain Pulse for more info:  http://www.themountainpulse.com/2012/08/caldera-festival-preview/

LARAMIE:  OLD LARAMIE CITY BROTHEL TOUR , AUGUST 24, 5:30-6:30

This tour will emphasize how prostitution facilitated the economic growth and development of Laramie City. The tour will begin at the 1st Street Plaza, move east to Grand News Stand (the site of the Grover Institute—Christy Grover’s elaborate Victorian brothel), then move north along the front street architecture (specifically designed to facilitate retail businesses on the ground level, with the small side entrances, leading to staircases for brothels on the second floor level). The tour will end at Second Story Books for a good look at the original brothel rooms, now used in the bookstore.  Social, cultural, and health issues surrounding the economics of prostitution will be discussed, as well as the tax revenue gleaned from the industry.Note: This tour is NOT appropriate for children 12 and under.  http://www.laramiemainstreet.org/Events.html 

WORLAND:  PEPSI WYOMING BBQ CHAMPIONSHIPS AUGUST 17 & 18

Sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society, this 8th annual BBQ/Bluegrass Festival includes 30+ BBQ cookers which come to compete for this year’s prizes totaling over $6975! Also includes a brew fest this year! http://www.wyo-bbq-bluegrass.com/

 

Snake River Brewery at the Steinley Cup www.whofish.org.

SARATOGA: STEINLEY CUP MICROBREW FEST AUGUST 18

“Come for the Beer… Stay for the Bull”  Held on Veteran’s Island in Saratoga, Wyoming the microbrewery competition brings together the top professional microbreweries in Wyoming in search of the coveted Saratoga Steinley Cup traveling trophy and is Wyoming’s original and only official microbrewery competition. Live music and great eats complete the event. Stick around for the Saratoga Bullfest, a bull riders-only event at Buck Springs Saturday evening. The cost is $20 per person. Attendees will receive a mug and ballots to vote for People’s Choice.  http://www.saratogachamber.info/

 

GREEN RIVER:  ARTS ON THE GREEN AUGUST 17 & 18

Come enjoy this annual art loving event, including sculpture and drawing, a kid’s event and lots more! Held in conjunction with the River Festival, hosted by the Green River Chamber of Commerce. Learn more at www.cityofgreenriver.org.

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NATIONAL ELK REFUGE CELEBRATES 100 YEARS — AUGUST 10-12, 2012

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NATIONAL ELK REFUGE TO HOST A SERIES OF CENTENNIAL EVENTS

From the National Elk Refuge:

National Elk Refuge Manager Steve Kallin is pleased to announce an exciting line-up of programs scheduled for Friday, August 10 through Sunday, August 12 to celebrate and honor the Refuge’s 100-year history. The weekend centennial celebration dates were selected to coincide with the historic date of August 10, 1912 when an Act of Congress set aside lands “for the establishment of a winter game (elk) reserve in the State of Wyoming, lying south of the Yellowstone Park . . .”

Centennial activities will kick off at 10:30 am on Friday, August 10 at the Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center, located at 532 N. Cache Street in Jackson. An hour-long program, free of charge and open to the public, will take place on the Visitor Center lawn. Invited guests include Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar or his representative, Wyoming Governor Matt Mead, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Dan Ashe, and Regional Director Steve Guertin. The program will features music, speakers, a short performance by Theodore Roosevelt impersonator Case Hicks, and birthday cake. Parking will be limited; persons attending the event are encouraged to car pool, use off-site parking, or walk from START bus stops such as the Home Ranch Parking Lot located three blocks south of the Visitor Center at the corner of North Cache and Gill Streets.

The National Elk Refuge administrative offices at 675 E. Broadway Street and the Historic Miller House, located  three-quarter mile north of the Refuge’s entrance off East Broadway Street, will be closed on Friday, August 10 from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm so all Refuge staff can attend the ceremony. Case Hicks, portraying Theodore Roosevelt at Friday’s ceremony, will also offer two hour-long programs later that same weekend, giving audiences an opportunity to learn about Roosevelt’s establishment of the nation’s first wildlife refuge in 1903 and his important contributions to present-day conservation efforts. In character, Hicks will offer a special children’s program on Friday, August 10 from 1:00 to 2:00 pm, entertaining the audience with stories of his childhood and adventures. Free prizes will be given to all children ages 5-12 attending the program, including a limited number of “Teddy Bears.” A second full performance for persons of all ages will be held on Saturday, August 11 from 10:00 to 11:00 am. Both Theodore Roosevelt performances will be at the Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center and are free of charge.

Other events at the Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center include:

Friday, August 10, 3:00 to 3:30 pm: Slideshow and talk by the Jackson Hole Historical Society & Museum entitled “Homesteader Hopes and Reality in the High Country of Jackson Hole.” The program will share the history of homesteaders and settlers in the valley through stories of early day residents and historic photographs.

Friday, August 10, 4:30 to 6:30 pm: “Partners in Pathways” celebration, bicycle ride and free barbecue. Sponsored by Friends of Pathways, Jackson Hole Community Pathways, Town of Jackson, Teton County, and the National Elk Refuge. Persons planning to leave the Visitor Center to participate in the ride should park at the Home Ranch Parking Lot located three blocks south of the Visitor Center.

Saturday, August 11, 11:00 am to 12:00 pm: A ranger-led presentation giving insight to the legendary mountain men or fur trappers who lived and trapped in Jackson Hole in the 1820s and 1830s. Dressed in appropriate attire, a Grand Teton National Park ranger will discuss and demonstrate many of the specialized skills that were required of these brave and industrious individuals.

Sunday, August 12, 4:00 pm: Raffle drawing for a Henry Holdworth’s framed photo entitled, “Winter’s Refuge.” The photo is currently on display at the Visitor Center, with ticket sales available through August 12 at 3:30 pm.

A number of weekend events are also scheduled for the Historic Miller House, located ¾ mile north of the Refuge’s entrance off East Broadway Street in Jackson. They include:

Friday, August 10, 12:00 to 4:00 pm: Flint knapping demonstration by artist Tom Lucas, who has a working knowledge of the methods of ancestral tool making.

Friday, August 10, 12:00 to 4:00 pm ; Saturday, August 11 and Sunday, August 12, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm:

Period costumes and props on loan from the Jackson Hole Playhouse. A variety of costumes of all sizes will be on display and available for try-on and photographs.

Saturday, August 11, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm: Chuckwagon cooking demonstration with free samples, provided by Western Range Catering.

Sunday, August 12, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm: Quilting demonstration by the Jackson Hole Quilt Guild.

Two additional public programs will be offered at locations other than the Refuge’s two primary visitor services facilities. They include:

Friday, August 10, 1:00 to 2:30 pm: Refuge staff will lead a public feed shed tour to give participants an opportunity to learn more about the Refuge’s supplemental feeding and irrigation programs. Persons on the tour will drive caravan-style to the feed shed and must provide their own transportation. The tour, offered free of charge, will depart from the Historic Miller House at 1:00 pm.

Friday, August 10, 7:00 to 9:00 pm: An evening of storytelling and reminiscing, entitled “Refuge Reflections: A Manager’s Perspective,” will be held at the National Museum of Wildlife Art, located on the west side of Highway 89, 2½ miles north of Jackson’s Town Square. The program will include interviews with four National Elk Refuge Managers, followed by a social hour to meet and visit with each of the speakers. A schedule of activities, listed by day, can be found on the National Elk Refuge’s home page at www.fws.gov/nationalelkrefuge. “We encourage families to come out and enjoy a variety of fun, educational programs and be a part of the celebration,” Kallin said.

For further information on any of the individual events, please call the Refuge administrative offices at 307.733.9212.

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National Get Outdoors Day & Internship w/Enzi Opportunity

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Grand Teton National Park Offers Free Entry on National Get Outdoors Day

Grand Teton National Park invites visitors to celebrate the arrival of summer and discover the wonders of the natural world during National Get Outdoors Day on Saturday, June 9th. As an added bonus, entrance fees will be waived at Grand Teton and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway—along with other national parks across the country—as part of an initiative to encourage people to visit, explore and enjoy America’s national park areas. Fees will also be waived on September 29 (National Public Lands Day) and from November 10 through 12 (Veterans Day weekend).

Other fees, such as those for camping and boat permits, will remain in effect.

The concept for celebrating the great outdoors began in 1998 when President Bill Clinton proclaimed a week in June as Great Outdoors Week. President Barack Obama issued a similar proclamation urging Americans to spend time in nature as a way to connect future generations with our national legacy of public lands and the importance of conservation. The 2012 National Get Outdoors Day is a perfect time for families and friends to enjoy activities together from hiking and wildlife watching to canoeing, fishing or biking—activities that promote a healthy, active, and energized lifestyle.

To further highlight National Get Outdoors Day and free entry, Grand Teton rangers encourage visitors to join them in family-oriented activities that focus on First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move Outside” initiative: a national campaign to end childhood obesity within a generation. This program is underway in national parks across the United States. Several programs designed to promote physical activity in the great outdoors will take place at Grand Teton on June 9th and throughout the summer. These include:

·  Inspiration Point Hike: Trek to Hidden Falls and a viewpoint above Jenny Lake to learn about Teton geology and the work of glaciers. Meet 8:30 a.m. at the Jenny Lake Visitor Center flagpole for an uphill two-mile hike (moderate difficulty).

·  Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Hike: Explore the sights, sounds and solitude of the Preserve while strolling along Lake Creek to an overlook at Phelps Lake that affords a dramatic view of the Teton Range. Reservations recommended, call 307.739.3654. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the LSR Preserve Center’s porch for this three-mile hike (easy to moderate difficulty).

·  Taggart Lake Hike: Walk to scenic Taggart Lake at the base of the Teton Range and learn about the geology and biologic communities that adorn the landscape Meet 9 a.m. at Taggart Lake trailhead for this three-mile hike (moderate difficulty).

·  Swan Lake Hike: Wander through forest and wetland communities while learning about the plants and animals living near Jackson Lake and Colter Bay. Meet 1 p.m. at Colter Bay Visitor Center flagpole for this three-mile hike (easy difficulty).

Participants are advised to bring water, sunscreen, rain gear, insect repellant, binoculars and cameras.

“With colorful wildflowers in bloom and newborn animals making their debuts, this is an ideal time to visit Grand Teton and experience the beauty and fun recreational opportunities that this park and others offer throughout all seasons of the year,” said Superintendent Mary Gibson Scott. “I hope that everyone takes advantage of the free entry and visits a national park near them. What better way to celebrate summer’s splendor than creating special memories with family and friends in the great outdoors?”

Apply for an Internaship with US Senator Mike Enzi

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., is encouraging college students and graduates to apply for an internship in his Washington, D.C. office this fall. The deadline for applications is July 6.

The internship offers experience in the direct operations of our nation’s government. Interns have the ability to network, develop job skills and gain knowledge to further their education and future career choices, according to Enzi.

“An internship in my office is all about opportunity,” Enzi said. “Interns are an integral part of the office. They also have the chance to meet remarkable people, work on important projects and experience the nation’s capital.”

Typical intern duties include giving Wyoming constituents Capitol tours and conducting research for legislative aides, in addition to administrative and clerical tasks.  Interns also have the opportunity to attend committee hearings and lectures and observe floor proceedings.

Senator Enzi provides a monthly stipend for his interns and many colleges typically offer school credit for internship programs. Senator Enzi encourages candidates to look into specific programs provided by their schools and take full advantage of their time in his office.

The fall internship for 2012 runs from September 4 to December 14. Priority is given to students and graduates from Wyoming, or those studying in Wyoming, who have achieved at least a sophomore status at an accredited university or college.

Individuals interested in an internship with Senator Enzi’s office should apply online at www.enzi.senate.gov. Select the “Student” tab and click on “Internship Information.” For additional information, contact Enzi’s Internship Coordinator Evan Baker at (202) 224 3424 or at intern_coordinator@enzi.senate.gov.

“Our past interns gained valuable work experience and created friendships and memories that lasted far beyond their time in the office,” Enzi said. “I encourage anyone who is interested to apply as soon as possible.”

Kati Hime, Editor

editor@wyolifestyle.com

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ON THE CALENDAR: Art, Earth Day, GTNP and more!

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Tonya Pepper, “Encaustic Work”

LANDER:  LANDER ART CENTER ANNUAL MEMBERS SHOW — May 18

The Lander Art Center’s Annual Members Show is scheduled to open May 18, 2012.  We encourage artists around the state to become a Lander Art Center member and participate. Entry fee is $20 for up to three pieces or free to members at the supporter level and up.  All mediums accepted.  Please see Lander Art Center website for details and entry guidelines.

CHEYENNE:  CHEYENNE INTL FILM FESTIVAL IS COMING — MAY 18-20 

Wyoming Film Office and Wyoming Community Media are hosting a tour of out-of-Wyoming filmmakers of movie locations around Southeast Wyoming in conjunction with the Cheyenne International Film Festival (CIFF).

The CIFF begins May 17 in downtown Cheyenne with the local filmmaker and festival reception at the Depot Museum before the festival opens Friday evening May 18 and extends through Sunday May 20. Visit Wyoming Community Media’s website for more information on CIFF and the filmmaker tour.

LARAMIE — UNIVERSITY WOMEN’S CLUB CELEBRATES 100TH ANNIVERSARY

The University Women’s Club (formerly the Faculty Women’s Club) is celebrating their 100th anniversary with a look at fashion through the ages.  Come celebrate the evolution of women in Laramie from 1912 to present — fashion from every decade along with hors d’oeuvres and libations to purchase. Tickets are $5 at the door, Saturday April 28, 6:30-9 PM (fashion show to begin at 7:15); Hart’s Alley, 404 S. 2nd St. (parking most convenient in the back of the buildling!).  Contact club president Kati Hime at 307-755-6896 for more information on the event, organization or serving as a model!

 

CASPER:  TRIBAL SPORTSWEAR’S “HEART FOR ART” EVENT AT FASHION CROSSROADS CELEBRATES LOCAL ART INSTRUCTOR – APRIL 28

Tribal Sportswear has partnered with Fashion Crossroads (228 E. 2nd St., Casper) for their signature charity event, “Heart for Art”. Kyleen Stevenson-Braxton, Co-Owner of Fashion Crossroads, selected art teacher Nancy Lee of Dean Morgan Junior High. “Nancy is a creative and dedicated art teacher who continually motivates her students to produce and to tap into their creative spirits,” says a local resident. “She has a great sense of humor and she is the best art teacher I ever had in my life,” says a student.

On April 28th, Mrs. Lee will be awarded with a plaque and $250 gift card to purchase art supplies. Fashion Crossroads will offer food and refreshments all day for guests, a gift with purchase “Heart for Art” signature t-shirt and raffle of a Tribal outfit to any customer who purchases.

ABOUT HEART FOR ART:  Tribal Sportswear launched “Heart for Art” initiative in 2012 to support art programs in middle schools. “‘Heart for Art’ was created to engage our retail partners and the local communities by supporting and strengthening creativity in the visual and performing art departments,” Tribal Sportswear says.

Visit Fashion Crossroads in Casper — 228 E 2nd St. — April 28th for this special event!

GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK — EXPLORE THE PARK DURING NATIONAL PARK WEEK

Grand Teton National Park offers free admission and more during National Park Week from April 21-29. (Not close to GTNP? ALL 397 US National Parks are FREE during National Park Week!)

Several fun-filled activities and events are planned for the whole family and these are also free of charge. Visitors and local residents are encouraged to plan a getaway to experience the natural wonder of Grand Teton during National Park Week. As this year’s theme “Picture Yourself in a Park” suggests, it’s a perfect time to make memories and capture photographs to share online at http://www.nps.gov/npweek/.

Visit our blog post for more information on events, activities, specials and more to enjoy throughout Grand Teton National Park during National Park Week — April 21-29, 2012!

JACKSON — PICNIC FOR THE PLANET TO CELEBRATE EARTH DAY

Kati Hime, Editor

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FROM THE PARKS: Explore GTNP for FREE during National Park Week, Apr 21-29

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Grand Teton National Park offers free admission and more during National Park Week from April 21-29.

Several fun-filled activities and events are planned for the whole family and these are also free of charge. Visitors and local residents are encouraged to plan a getaway to experience the natural wonder of Grand Teton during National Park Week. As this year’s theme “Picture Yourself in a Park” suggests, it’s a perfect time to make memories and capture photographs to share online at http://www.nps.gov/npweek/.

To celebrate National Park Week and the arrival of spring, ranger naturalists will lead early-morning tours to observe strutting sage grouse as they perform their annual courtship dance on an historic lek (mating arena) located just off the Antelope Flats Road near Mormon Row. Tours will take place April 21–22 and April 28–29 and begin from the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center at 5:30 a.m. Reservations are required; call 307.739.3399 to make a reservation and get advice on what to wear and bring along

The Teton Park Road is free of snow, but vehicles are not allowed to drive it until May 1st. Consequently, National Park Week presents a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a hike, bike ride or rollerblade outing on the road before summer traffic begins. Spring weather can be changeable and inclement, so be prepared with layered clothing and/or a windproof jacket, and carry water and energy snacks.

In recognition of National Park Week, The Murie Center staff will offer guided tours of the historic Murie Ranch at 4 p.m. on Saturday April 21 and Saturday April 28. Explore the Teton home of the Murie family that served as a base camp and center for the American conservation movement in the 1950s and 60s.

Several activities are scheduled for National Junior Ranger Day on Saturday, April 28 at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center in Moose. Festivities include:

10 a.m. —a living history demonstration on mountain men

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. — an inspection of vehicles and equipment regularly used in park operations; these will include an ambulance, fire

engine, patrol car and snowplow.

11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — a live bird demonstration by Teton Raptor Center bird biologists

11 a.m. to 2 p.m. — a ranger boot camp and obstacle course where children compete in physical activities that mimic park ranger      jobs; an animal Olympics game where youngsters can test their skills against the abilities of various wildlife species; a story corner for     listening to tales about Grand Teton; a touch table with animal furs, feathers and bones to feel; a cultural history station that showcases objects from the David T. Vernon Collection of Indian Arts; and a station where children can dress up in an genuine ranger uniform.

2 p.m. — a second mountain man demonstration.

Children who participate in at least three of the activities will earn either a Junior Ranger patch or badge. Grand Teton Association will offer a 15% discount in the Discovery Center bookstore on Junior Ranger Day.

Numerous educational and informational books and other interesting items (videos, posters, ornaments, plush animals, toys, etc.) may be purchased using the special Junior Ranger Day discount.

During National Park Week, all 397 national park areas offer free admission all week long. A seven-day pass to Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks is normally $25 for a private vehicle.

Kati Hime, Editor

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Happy Birthday Yellowstone!

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Image by Cliff Cox Photography — www.cliffcoxphoto.com

Yellowstone National Park turns 140 today! The park was established by President Ulysses S. Grant on March 1, 1872 — the first national park in the world!  It has been enjoyed by generations from across the entire planet — and its majority lies within our own boundaries in Wyoming.  Idaho and Montana also contain portions of the park. The Yellowstone Caldera is the largest supervolcano on the continent, and because of this the ongoing thermal activity makes Yellowstone a site to behold — 60% of the world’s geysers reside in the park, including world renowned Old Faithful.

Many people have memories and stories of Yellowstone National Park, and we’d love to celebrate its birthday today by hearing your stories!  Did you visit as a child? In different seasons?  Do you remember the 1988 Yellowstone fires?  As a child, our family visited the summer after the fires, in 1989.  It was quite the experience!

www.yellowstonecountry.org

Please share your stories, photos and memories with us, and we will add them to this blog! Post here, on our Facebook page, our Twitter page (@wyolifestylemag), or email us at editor@wyolifestyle.com!

Happy Birthday Yellowstone — May you live long and wow millions more with your wonders!

Kati Hime, Editor

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NEWS FROM THE PARKS: LIGHTNING IGNITES FIRES IN GTNP

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There have been many severe fires around Wyoming in the last few weeks, including the Hole in the Wall fire that recently moved from northern Wyoming into Montana…a fire north of Gillette has burned over 4,000 acres…an 800 acre fire near Dubois that is now full contained…and a fire claiming almost 15,000 acres and forcing the closure of Highway 34 near Wheatland… (from Associated Press, August 25, 2011).http://www.ravallirepublic.com/news/state-and-regional/article_3205aa49-18fa-5ed4-a453-fda0cf0d54fa.html

The following is a report from the National Park Service regarding fire activity in Grand Teton National Park…

 

Lightning Ignites Several Fires in Grand Teton National Park, Bridger-Teton National Forest

More than 6,700 lightning strikes were recorded Friday, August 26, through early Monday morning, August 29, in Grand Teton National Park, Bridger-Teton National Forest and the surrounding area. Numerous strikes ignited at least three new fires in the park and four new fires in the forest. Teton Interagency Dispatch Center received several smoke reports despite rain across much of the area on Sunday. Teton Interagency firefighters remain on alert for additional starts as weather conditions become breezy and drier.

On Friday afternoon, fire crews suppressed a lightning-ignited fire in Grand Teton National Park. The Preserve Fire began near the Moose-Wilson Road on the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve and firefighters suppressed it at one tenth of an acre. Fire crews also worked to extinguish the Murphy Fire on the Grey’s River Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Visitors discovered that fire and attempted to put it out before reporting it to the Teton Interagency Dispatch Center.

Lightning from a sequence of storms on Saturday ignited an additional two new fires in Grand Teton National Park and three new fires on the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Fire crews will monitor the Rockchuck and Burned Ridge fires, both of which started in the park. The Rockchuck Fire lies northwest of Jenny Lake and is burning in a small stand of conifers on Rockchuck Peak, about 1,000 feet below the summit ridge. Because it ignited in rocky, steep terrain surrounded by sparse vegetation, it has limited potential to spread; however, smoke is occasionally visible from some park locations. The Burned Ridge fire began in the duff and needle litter at the base of a single tree. It lies at the southern end of the Pothole about a half mile east of the Teton Park Road in an area where the natural process of fire is considered a management priority. Spread potential for this fire is also limited due to sparse vegetation.

Crews from wildland fire engine of the Big Piney Ranger District on the Bridger-Teton National Forest are suppressing the Lime Fire, which may be visible from U.S. Highway 89.  The Nowlin Fire, located in Nowlin Meadows within the Teton Wilderness on the Buffalo Ranger District, is 10 acres and burning in heavy dead timber with bug-killed trees. The tenth-acre Soda Fire is burning in similar fuels near the Nowlin Fire and began during the same storm. Fire managers flew these fires Sunday and will determine a management action plan.

Due to other fire activity in the area, the wildland engine crew from Moose suppressed the single-tree, lightning-ignited Sheep Creek Fire in the Curtis Canyon area of the Jackson Ranger District.

For local fire information, log on to www.tetonfires.com. To report a fire call 307.739.3630.

 

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NEWS FROM THE PARKS: Rangers Rescue Injured Climber From Death Canyon

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From Grand Teton National Park:

Rangers Rescue Injured Climber from Death Canyon

In another operation pushing darkness—the second in as many nights—Grand Teton National Park rangers rescued a 25-year-old female who fell about 25 feet while climbing a popular route in Death Canyon called The Snaz. On Saturday, August 20, Lauren McLean from Lake Oswego, Oregon sustained significant injuries when she fell because her belay system failed and landed feet first on a ledge at the base of the last pitch.

A member of McLean’s climbing party notified Teton Interagency Dispatch Center of the incident at 4:50 p.m. via cell phone. Park rescue personnel immediately summoned a Teton Interagency contract helicopter to perform a reconnaissance flight to assess the situation. Due to McLean’s location, rangers devised two separate plans for McLean’s rescue; one option included spending the night with her on the cliff and the other option involved an evacuation before dark.

Two rangers were inserted via short-haul just above McLean’s location a little before 8 p.m. One ranger rappelled down to McLean and determined that it would be possible to fly her off the ledge that night. The ranger then stabilized McLean’s injuries and provided emergency medical care before preparing her for a short-haul flight in an aerial evacuation suit. McLean was flown from The Snaz to the historic White Grass Dude Ranch that sits just east of Death Canyon. A park ambulance met the helicopter in a meadow near the ranch buildings and transported McLean to St. John’s Medical Center in Jackson for further treatment. McLean was subsequently flown to the University of Utah Medical Center in Salt Lake City, Utah for additional medical care.

McLean’s two climbing partners decided to hike out of Death Canyon on Saturday night. One ranger spent the night on a ledge of the cliff face in order to assist in flying off rescue equipment and other gear early Sunday morning.

The Snaz is one of the most popular climbs in Death Canyon, and is usually completed in nine pitches. It is rated a 5.9 on the Yosemite Decimal System, a set of numeric ratings describing the difficulty of climbs.

FROM THE PARKS: BEARS & YELLOWSTONE

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Many have heard of the recent incident in Yellowstone Park — here is a link to an ABC News report…

http://abcnews.go.com/US/grizzly-bear-kills-hiker-yellowstone-national-park/story?id=14014264

Many are weighing in on the incident, its implications and importance for safety.  Grand Teton National Park announced the following program on July 5, which we found slightly ironic but so important.  Not only is preparing yourself important, but so is protecting our natural environment for these wild animals.  Be sure to be prepared whenever you journey into our Wyoming wilderness, and always remember that animals in the wild are just that — wild.

From Grand Teton National Park (National Park Service, US Dept of the Interior):

Grand Teton National Park Supports Bear Spray Recycle Program

Grand Teton National Park is proud to announce its participation in a new sustainability effort that recycles a specialized item commonly used in bear country: bear spray. In coordination, with other federal partners at Yellowstone National Park, the National Elk Refuge and surrounding national forests, Grand Teton recently placed collection bins at several locations to gather unwanted bear spray canisters and prepare them for recycling.

Millions of people visit  the Greater Yellowstone Area each year, and thousands of bear spray canisters—used and unused—are disposed of in trash containers because they are not allowed on commercial flights, or visitors no longer have a need for the spray after they leave the area. These bear spray canisters enter the waste stream, causing a serious environmental concern. In addition, waste disposal workers are exposed to accidental discharge of pepper-laced propellant at disposal sites. To correct this problem, a new recycling center was established this year in Yellowstone.

The effort to curb the growing number of bear spray canisters in landfills emerged two years ago, when Yellowstone park managers and the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality agreed that a recycling project could resolve this issue. The solution came from three Montana State University (MSU) engineering students who designed a machine that removes the pepper oil and propellant before it crushes the canister. The recycling unit is able to extract all contents through a filtering process that safely separates the ingredients. The empty canisters are then punctured, flattened and sold to any recycling center as high quality aluminum.

Using the principles that were developed by the MSU students, a Montana-based manufacturing firm produced the first-of-its-kind canister recycling unit. The recycling unit, located at Mammoth in Yellowstone, began operating this spring. To fund manufacture of the specialized unit, donations were secured from the Greater Yellowstone Area business community.

“As National Park Service employees, we have a responsibility to be on the forefront of sustainable environmental practices, and we’re proud to join our federal partners in this recycling effort: an effort that has positive impacts across the Greater Yellowstone Area,” said Superintendent Mary Gibson Scott. “Grand Teton park personnel will take the lead in transporting canisters from collection sites within the greater Jackson area to the specialized recycling unit located in Yellowstone.”

Collection sites within Grand Teton National Park include: Colter Bay Visitor Center, Colter Bay Cabins, Jackson Lake Lodge, Jenny Lake Ranger Station, Jenny Lake Visitor Center, Gros Ventre Campground, Signal Mountain Lodge, and the Craig Thomas Discovery Visitor Center. Collection sites are also located at the Jackson Hole & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center at the National Elk Refuge and Teton County Recycling at 3270 South Adams Canyon Road. In addition, collection sites are located at several private businesses, and at the Jackson Hole Airport beginning July 15.

Yellowstone is accepting bear spray canisters at most hotels, stores and at all park entrances.

 

NEWS FROM THE PARKS: Firework Reminder

Posted on by wlmeditor

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FROM US DEPT OF INTERIOR / GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK:

Reminder of Fireworks Restrictions for Fourth of July

As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, visitors and local residents alike are reminded that fireworks are not permitted in Grand Teton National Park, on the Bridger-Teton National Forest, or in Teton County.  It is essential that everyone comply with this regulation, especially given the warmer temperatures and drying conditions taking place across the greater Jackson Hole area.

Besides the fireworks prohibition on public and county lands, campers are reminded that unattended or abandoned campfires can easily escalate into wildfires; therefore, it is important that all campfires are completely extinguished and cold to the touch before leaving a site. Campers and day users should never leave a fire unattended, and should always be prepared by having a shovel on hand and a water bucket ready for use.

Despite the unusually wet and cool spring this year, abandoned campfires and fireworks can still lead to an unwanted wildfire. As of Wednesday, June 29, at least two human-caused fires have occurred on the Bridger-Teton National Forest and 12 unattended or abandoned campfires were discovered and extinguished by Teton Interagency fire staff and law enforcement officials at forest camp sites.

With the arrival of the annual fire season, area residents and visitors are requested to report a fire or smoke by calling 307.739.3630. For more fire information, please visit www.tetonfires.com.

I would add that this fire safety reminder applies to ALL our wilderness areas across Wyoming!  Please be safe and aware of your actions, and always extinguish your fires!

–Kati Hime, Editor

editor@wyolifestyle.com

 

NEWS FROM THE PARKS: Teton Employees Receive Fire Service Awards

Posted on by wlmeditor

Teton Interagency Fire Employees Receive 2010 Regional National Park Service Awards

On behalf of the National Park Service Intermountain Region (IMR), Grand Teton National Park Superintendent Mary Gibson Scott and Bridger-Teton National Forest Supervisor Jacque Buchanan presented two Teton Interagency Fire employees with awards for excellence in fire management. Grand Teton National Park Assistant Fire Management Officer Mack McFarland received the IMR Interagency Fire Management Leadership Award and Martha Williamson, Teton Interagency fire planner, received the IMR Fire Management Achievement Award.

McFarland’s leadership award recognizes his exemplary service and dual role for the past three years as a fuels specialist for Grand Teton National Park and as the north zone assistant fire management officer for fuels on the Bridger-Teton National Forest.

“Mack had the vision and skills to effectively work within each agency’s constraints and overcome any obstacles to successfully complete fuels treatment projects for both agencies,” said IMR Fire Management Officer Michael Davin. “Mack is a great example of a service-first approach that is truly working.”

McFarland began working seasonally at Grand Teton in 1990 and became a permanent employee in 1996. During his tenure as the interagency fuels specialist, McFarland managed several large-scale projects: the multi-year Lower Gros Ventre Prescribed Fire and the Buffalo Valley Fuels Environmental Assessment, among others.

“On behalf of the Intermountain Region, I extend our thanks and appreciation to Mack McFarland for his dedication and commitment to the teamwork, integration and cooperation between the Bridger-Teton National Forest and Grand Teton National Park,” said IMR Director John Wessels. “His skill in ‘leading by example’ demonstrates a genuine interagency spirit.”

Williamson came to Bridger-Teton National Forest and Grand Teton National Park as the interagency fire planner and fire GIS specialist in 2008. She earned the fire achievement award for her significant GIS support and contributions in training for the IMR Wildland Fire and Aviation Management Program.

“Martha provided invaluable direction in creating hands-on training for National Parks Service fire personnel within the Wildland Fire Decision Support System,” said IMR Director John Wessels. “In addition, she has participated in and provided direction for our regional fire geo-database.

Martha works hard to find practical solutions to fire spatial analysis, risk assessment and solution development to better protect people, firefighters, and natural resources.”

The Intermountain Region of the National Park Service spans eight states from Montana to Texas, and includes 92 parks and national historic sites.