CHEYENNE — Starting May 26, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department invites public comment on a draft version of Wyoming’s 2027 State Wildlife Action Plan — also known as SWAP. Public comment will be accepted through July 27.
On June 30, a virtual webinar will be held to provide opportunities for public comment and discussion. This webinar will be held from 1 - 2 p.m.
Wyoming's SWAP provides a statewide roadmap for conserving species that warrant additional attention, or Species of Greatest Conservation Need . SWAP also unlocks approximately $500,000 in federal funds each year through the State Wildlife Grants program, which are matched by the state and partnering organizations. Wyoming updates its SWAP at least every 10 years to ensure this roadmap reflects the most up-to-date science and environmental conditions.
“The goal of the SWAP is to identify species and habitats before they are at risk,” Game and Fish Director Angi Bruce said. “This process allows us to create proactive strategies that conserve critical habitat and wildlife populations. SWAPs are an important process utilized nationwide, and are created through the partnership of agencies, organizations, and stakeholders who play a key role in conservation efforts.”
The SWAP revision is coordinated by Game and Fish, but it is a blueprint for SGCN conservation across the state. The 2027 SWAP reflects engagement from more than 100 experts from more than 20 organizations. Through this collaboration, the SWAP identifies voluntary, non-regulatory and priority actions the state can pursue. Each state develops and maintains a SWAP, which contributes to a nation-wide strategy for conserving at-risk species and habitats.
Public, stakeholder and partner engagement are key components of the SWAP. Game and Fish encourages review of the 2027 SWAP and invites public feedback.
Wyoming’s first SWAP was created in 2005. Updates to incorporate new information and consider emerging challenges were conducted in 2010 and 2017. The current revision was initiated in 2024. Following the public comment period, the SWAP will be presented to the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission this fall. Once approved by the Commission, Game and Fish will submit the plan to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for final approval. The SWAP will be finalized in 2027.
Feedback can be submitted by completing an online survey, filling out a paper copy available at all regional offices, or providing comment at a virtual public comment opportunity on June 30. The draft 2027 SWAP, along with additional information for how to provide public feedback, is available on the Game and Fish SWAP page.
—WGFD—