Federal data is complete from 1998-2017. State and local data is complete from 1998-2017. In the tables and charts below, acres are allocated to each program proportionate to the size of the contributions to each acquisition. For example, if an acquisition had two contributions, and each program contributed equal dollar amounts, each program receives 50% of the acres. If you have questions or want to provide updated information, please contact Jessica Welch at jessica.welch@tpl.org.
Profile of State Program(s)
Wyoming Game and Fish Department: With partial funding from hunting and license fees, the Wyoming Department of Fish and Game acquires and leases property as natural areas, wildlife habitat, winter range or public access for hunting and fishing. Between 1998 and 2008, the Department of Fish and Game has been limited in its ability to acquire land due to lack of funding.
Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust: The Wyoming Legislature created the Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust (WWNRT) in 2005. The program’s mission is to enhance and conserve wildlife habitat and natural resource values throughout the state. The Trust is funded by interest earned on a permanent account, donations, and legislative appropriations. Nearly $2 million in private funding has been contributed to the program since 2006 from nearly 40 different contributors. The Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust is an independent agency guided by a nine-member citizen board. Since its inception in 2005, the WWNRT has funded more than 700 projects with nearly 120 different partners. Nearly $58 million has been allocated from WWNRT funds, with a total project value on the ground in excess of $343 million. Every dollar spent by the WWNRT is matched on average with $6 from other sources. Funds may only be granted to non-profit and governmental organizations, however they may participate with for-profit entities provided there is no allocation of financial resources to any for-profit entity. Funds may be used for planning, development, and monitoring programs at the sole discretion of the Board. A 25 percent match is required.
Local Financing Enabled
Counties in Wyoming have the uniform authority to levy the specific purpose sales tax, through approval by a simple majority of voters. Some or all of the funds may be used for acquisition of parks and open space.
Local Programs Included
Local conservation programs include:
- Laramie County, WY
Visit www.landvote.org for detailed information on this program.
Federal Partnerships
Federal agencies and programs that have conserved land in Wyoming include:
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Migratory Bird Conservation Fund (MBCF)
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA)
- U.S. Forest Service
- U.S. National Park Service
- U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service – Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program (FRPP)
- U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service – Grassland Reserve Program (GRP)
- U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service – Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP)