The Wyoming Game and Fish Department, in collaboration with many partners, invested more than $8 million for aquatic and terrestrial habitat projects in 2018. The projects are crucial for conserving more than 800 species in Wyoming for future generations.
Game and Fish recently released the 2018 Strategic Habitat Plan Annual Report. Game and Fish allocated more than $1.6 million in funds for habitat projects and was able to leverage that for more than $6.4 million from the Wyoming Wildlife Natural Resources Trust fund, federal government funds, state funds, private landowners and local conservation partners.
“External partners contributed $3.72 for every Game and Fish dollar,” said Brian Nesvik, Game and Fish director. “This work would not be possible without the wide-ranging support of the people of this state to ensure we leave Wyoming a better place. Wyoming invests in habitat because it’s clear that the people who live and work here treasure wildlife, and that starts on the ground. I want to thank all project partners who invested in Wyoming’s wildlife habitats in 2018.”
The annual report details diverse accomplishments throughout the state. Over the last year, Game and Fish, alongside partners, helped direct restoration, monitoring and enhancement activities aimed at improving 101 stream miles and more than 299,000 acres of terrestrial habitats including planting nearly 13,306 native trees and shrubs. Cheatgrass treatments to help control and prevent the spread of the invasive plant topped 34,263 acres. More details on projects and the species they impact can be found in the report.
Ian Tator, Game and Fish statewide terrestrial habitat manager, notes the Strategic Habitat Plan helps focus efforts to maintain the state’s high-quality of wildlife.
“The investment in the public resource is paying off,” Tator said. “With our partners, we are able to maintain habitat as well as improve habitats that have been degraded. The improvements benefit a wide-variety of species and also support wildlife-based recreation, increase public awareness about the importance of healthy habitats and showcase the collaborative efforts of the public, conservation groups, private landowners and land managers.”
Current and past reports can be downloaded from the Game and Fish website.
